Born on December 22, 1933, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Patrick Dempsey was the son of James G. and Mary “Mae” Walsh Dempsey. His early education at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel grade school and St. Paul High School in Scranton laid the foundation for his future academic and professional achievements. Dempsey pursued higher education at Lehigh University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering and distinguishing himself as president of the Beta Epsilon chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi Social Fraternity. Continuing his academic pursuits, he obtained a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Scranton in 1966, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Dempsey’s early career path included a stint in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed at the Redstone and Frankford Arsenals. Notably, at Redstone Arsenal, he contributed to the Jupiter Guided Missile Project under the guidance of Wernher Von Braun, a pivotal figure in guided missile technology. This experience in a high-stakes, technically demanding environment likely honed his problem-solving and leadership skills, which would later prove invaluable in his business ventures. Prior to his military service, Dempsey proactively prepared for his entry into the laundry industry by studying at the American Institute of Laundry Management in 1955. This formal training led to his first industry role as a production supervisor at Mother’s Laundry in Dunmore, Pennsylvania, providing him with hands-on experience in laundry operations.
In 1958, Dempsey, alongside his brother Dick, embarked on the ambitious project of establishing Dempsey Linen Supply in Dunmore. Starting with just one delivery route and four employees in 1959, their hard work and strategic vision propelled the company to significant growth. Today, operating as Dempsey Uniform & Linen Supply, the company is a testament to their initial vision, serving a wide geographical area and employing a substantial workforce. The leadership of the company has now transitioned to the next generation, with Pat’s son, P.J., and daughter, Kristin, at the helm, ensuring the continuation of the Dempsey legacy. Furthermore, all six of Dempsey’s children maintain connections to the business, highlighting the family-oriented nature of the company’s operations.
Dempsey’s influence extended beyond his company to the broader uniform and linen supply industry. He actively contributed to the Textile Rental Services Association (TRSA), chairing several committees that were instrumental in developing essential training materials for the industry. His dedication to industry advancement is further evidenced by his chairmanship of the Board of CSC, a national network of independent laundries, and his role as a founding member of the National Management Bureau. His contributions were recognized with the TRSA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011, the industry’s highest honor, underscoring his profound impact and leadership.
Beyond the uniform and linen sector, Dempsey demonstrated exceptional business acumen in the financial industry. Elected to the board of directors at Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank in Dunmore in 1985, he served in various leadership roles, including interim CEO and president in 2010 and chairman from 2005 to 2018. His chairmanship was marked by successfully guiding Fidelity Bank through the challenges of the Great Recession and overseeing its listing on NASDAQ, showcasing his strategic financial management skills.
Dempsey’s commitment to community service was as significant as his business achievements. His nearly 50-year tenure on the Lackawanna County Regional Planning Commission, including 39 years as chairman, reflects his deep engagement in local development and planning. He also contributed to local governance through his chairmanship of the Dunmore Zoning Board and the Dunmore Planning Commission. His community contributions were recognized with accolades such as the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Northeast Council of Boy Scouts of America in 2013 and the Junior Achievement Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2014. A lifelong member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Dunmore and a past member of Cursillo, Dempsey also received the Holy Name Society’s Annual Memorial Award in 2015. In a nod to his Irish heritage, he served as the Honorary Grand Marshal of the Scranton St. Patrick’s Parade in 2019.
Patrick J. Dempsey is survived by his six children, 14 grandchildren, and his brother Thomas. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Karen Bewick Dempsey, and his brother, Dick. Funeral services were held on January 11th in Dunmore. Memorial contributions in his name can be made to Pennsylvanians for Human Life, reflecting his personal values and philanthropic interests. Patrick J. Dempsey’s life was one of remarkable achievement in business, industry leadership, and community service, leaving an enduring impact through Dempsey Uniform & Linen Supply and his extensive contributions to his community.
