Dennis Patrick Neary

Former Indiana State Senator Dennis Patrick Neary, 80, died at his Carmel home, Monday, Oct. 14, 2024, surrounded by his family and a grand-dog.

Born Feb. 11, 1944, Dennis was one of 15 children. He was a devoted father to Robert (Carla), Ryan (Nellie), Abby, Katelyn and Savannah Neary; and husband to Suzan Davis for 35 years this month. "Grandpa D." adored his grandchildren, Rory, Molly, Mary Cate, Liam, Ella and Jack. Dennis was a proud uncle to 55 nieces and nephews.

Dennis had a fine sense of humor and proudly wore specialty attire, including a sweatshirt that boasted, "You can't scare me, I have three daughters." He had a collection of hats that he would break out at weddings, gubernatorial inaugurations, barn dances and other lofty occasions.

Dennis served 16 years in the Indiana State Senate and was caucus chairman before he was elected by his peers to hold the top leadership position of Democrat Minority Floor Leader. He was known for working with both Republicans and Democrats with respect and dignity. He was a natural mentor and shared his knowledge and experience generously. He was La Porte County chairman for Robert Kennedy's presidential campaign in 1968.

Dennis was a teacher at Long Beach Elementary School for 23 years and ran for public office at the age of 32 because he thought the legislature was not doing enough for education. His win as a Democrat against a Republican incumbent in an overwhelmingly Republican district made headlines describing the victory as shocking and stunning. Ultimately, Dennis worked well with both parties. He married Suzan, a California Republican, at the Indiana State Capitol with Frank O'Bannon officiating the ceremony.

Dennis had tenacity. He was an original 1984 season ticket holder for the Indianapolis Colts and attended games faithfully up to the last season.

As a senator from Michigan City, he played a key role in saving the South Shore Line commuter train in Northwest Indiana. He was appointed by Gov. Frank O'Bannon to the Indiana Education and Labor Relations Board, then became political director for the Indiana Health Care Association.

Dennis received the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash Award by five governors, his first and last were from Republicans, exemplifying his service to all.

Visitation will be held Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, from 4 to 7 p.m., and Friday Oct. 25, 2024, from 10 to 11 a.m., at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel (OLMC) Church, 14598 Oak Ridge Rd., Carmel, IN 46032.

Funeral services will be Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at 11 a.m. at OLMC.

There will be a Celebration of Life immediately after the service.

During the legislative session there will be a separate celebration honoring Dennis on the Senate Floor, time and date to be announced.

We will also be hosting a Celebration of Life in La Porte at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to La Porte Parks. Donations can be made to: The La Porte Park Department is at 250 Pine Lake Avenue, La Porte, IN 46350.