DEMPSEY, Albert "Michael", age 92, passed away on Friday, February 2, 2024. He was born on December 28, 1931, in Sault Ste Marie to parents Thomas and Athaleen (nee O'Brien) Dempsey. Michael is survived by his wife of 67 wonderful years Ellen; his children: Brian (Sara) Dempsey, Christopher Dempsey, and Thomas (Toshie) Dempsey; grandchildren: Colleen Dempsey and Jake (Dani) Dempsey; and brother, Patrick (Peggy) Dempsey. After graduating high school, Michael received his undergrad and Masters at MSU in music. Once he graduated, he was drafted in the United States Army where he proudly served his country in the 71st Infantry band as a Pianist and Conductor. While serving, he met the love of his life Ellen in Fort Leonard Wood. He agreed to meet her for coffee even though he had never had a cup and never would for the rest of his life.

Michael was a brilliant musical composer and a masterful performer.  He was also a renowned conductor, directing everything from high school groups to professional productions of Rogers and Hammerstein classics.  A former teacher at Pontiac Public Schools, he spent his life teaching all of us a new love and appreciation for music. Visitation will be held on March 4, 2024 from 4-8pm at COATS FUNERAL HOME, with a rosary at 7:00pm. Funeral Mass will take place at St. Benedict's Catholic Church on March 5 at 10:00am with a luncheon following the service. Michael will be interred at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly at 1:30pm.  Donations may be made to the Soo Theatre, 534 Ashmun St, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.

Soo Theater Project
534 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie MI 49783
Web: https://www.sootheatre.org/donate/