Donald F. Dempsey

Donald Francis Dempsey was a man whose vibrant spirit and unwavering determination touched the lives of many. He was born on March 14,1934 in New York City, New York, and passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 in Austin, Texas at the age of 89. Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and mentor. He was lovingly referred to as Papa Bear by his grandchildren and many of those who knew and worked for him.

Don exemplified dedication with an extraordinary work ethic throughout his life. He served in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic during the Korean War. After finishing his service at Camp Gary in San Marcos, Texas, he moved to Austin to begin a long career in real estate, obtaining his real estate license in the 1950s. He built custom homes in the Rollingwood and Westlake area. With an eye for opportunity, Don often shared his knowledge of the value of land, reflecting on modest prices in the past contrasted with its exponential worth today.

In 1969, Don ventured into the realm of entrepreneurship, establishing a manufactured home dealership in Austin, Texas. His dedication, perseverance, and innovative ideas propelled Village Homes to being named one of the largest retailers in Texas, earning multiple industry awards along the way. Throughout his career, Don was known for his resilience and adaptability, overcoming challenges with a fierce intellect and sheer determination. We will never forget how special he made every Christmas for his employees' children, personally giving everyone a gift from Santa at the annual party.

Beyond his professional achievements, Don was beloved for his quick wit and infectious laughter. His one-liners could slay a room with laughter, and he left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. To know him was to love him because it was plain to see that Don had a heart as big as Texas. Don found immense joy in snow skiing and embraced life with an unbridled enthusiasm. He was also an avid pilot who sought every opportunity to take to the skies with family, friends, and clients. Even in his final days, he remained in rare form, his wit as sharp as ever.

Don is survived by his wife of 47 years, Janice Schroeder Dempsey; his son, Mike Dempsey and wife, Phyllis Pryor Dempsey, and their children, Jensen Dempsey, Rainey Dempsey and Larsen Dempsey; his daughter, Dina Dempsey Dreifuerst and her children, Jay Dreifuerst and Grace Dreifuerst; sister-in-law, Velera Gaertner and husband, Robert; sister-in-law, Carolyn Orth; and brother-in-law, Rudy Schroeder and wife, Janis. He is also survived by his "bonus child," Clint Ehlers, and his longtime business partner, David Buchanan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Hertha Lippman Dempsey, sister Joan Singleton and brother Charles "Charlie" Dempsey.

Services to celebrate Don's life will be held at Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church, 7127 Bee Cave Rd, Austin, TX 78746 on March 15, 2024 at 10:00 am. There will be a viewing at Austin-Peel & Son Funeral Home, 607 E. Anderson Lane, Austin, TX 78752 on Thursday, March 14, from 5:30 to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Central Texas Food Bank or The Salvation Army.