Dennis M. Farrell, Sr.

Dennis M. Farrell, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, Army veteran, and Philadelphia firefighter, Dennis lived a life defined by service, love, and an unwavering commitment to those he cherished and the community he served.

Born on April 23, 1949, to Jack and Mary Farrell (nee Leimkuhler) Dennis grew up in the Fox Chase neighborhood of Philadelphia, where he developed a strong sense of humility and compassion. Jack and Mary had 8 children, six boys and two girls. The house was always bustling with activity. All of the Farrell children attended St. Cecilia's School and then Cardinal Dougherty High School. After graduating from Cardinal Dougherty in 1968, Dennis was drafted into the United States Army, proudly serving his country in the Vietnam War with honor and distinction. Upon completing his military service, Dennis returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, seeking to continue serving others.

In 1975, Dennis joined the Philadelphia Fire Department, embarking on a 30-year career of bravery and dedication. As a firefighter, he was a steadfast protector of his community, responding to calls with courage and selflessness. Dennis's commitment earned him the rank of Captain and the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Dennis was equally devoted to his family. He met the love of his life, Nancy Lee Broderick, in 1969, and once Dennis returned from Vietnam, they married in 1972. Dennis and Nancy built a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and family. Together, they raised 3 children, Dennis, Tim, and Susan, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and integrity. Sadly, Nancy passed away in 1999 at the age of 47, and Dennis became, and remained, a rock to his 3 children.

Dennis raised his family in his childhood home in Fox Chase. The neighborhood knew him for his frequent walks around the Fox Chase Rec with his dogs. He remained a devoted member of St. Cecilia's Church, where he was known for his kind heart and willingness to lend a hand.

Dennis was introduced to Anne Eckert of Cheltenham, PA, in 2002 by a close family friend. Anne lost her husband a few years prior, and since they had a lot in common, they decided to give love a second chance. Dennis and Anne spent 22 wonderful years of companionship and love together until his death.

Dennis was a proud Poppi to his 11 grandchildren who brought him endless joy, and he took every opportunity to attend their games, recitals, and milestones, always beaming with pride. He loved being with his family, not only his children and grandchildren, but all of his siblings and their spouses. The large Farrell clan always had a great time, especially sitting around laughing, roasting each other, and sharing the millions of memories they share. Family was everything to Dennis.

Dennis is predeceased in death by his parents, Jack and Mary Farrell, his brother John Farrell; his wife Nancy B. Farrell; grandson, Brandon Lee Boyd; his sister-in-law JoAnn Brown (nee Broderick); his brother-in-law Joe Brown, and brother-in-law, Peter Gallagher, Sr. Dennis is survived by his beloved Anne; his children, Dennis Farrell (Kari), Timothy Farrell (Rebecca), and Susan Bell (Patrick); his grandchildren, Julie, Ashlyn, and Lauren Boyd, Mary and Nancy Bell, Caroline, Kate, and Ben Farrell, and Allison and Jack Farrell; Anne's daughter Maureen Drach (Timmy); his siblings, Martin Farrell (Chris), Maureen Hines (Thom), Eileen Gallagher, Kevin Farrell (Maureen), Brian Farrell (Mary), and David Farrell (Treva); and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday January 4, 2025, at 10:30 am at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church, 535 Rhawn St., Philadelphia, PA 19111, with military and firefighter honors to commemorate Dennis's remarkable life of service. There will also be a visitation to pay your respects from 9:30 am to 10:15 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, honoring Dennis's legacy of giving. Immediately following the mass, guests are invited to join the family at Johnny Apple's Restaurant, 184 Buck Rd., Holland, PA 18966, where we will eat, laugh, and share memories. Dennis loved a good Manhattan, so we will raise our glasses in his honor.

Dennis was a good man. A humble man. A selfless man. Dennis's light shone brightly in the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will forever be a beacon of love, strength, and courage. Rest in peace, Dennis-you will be deeply missed but never forgotten.