Cal had a multitude of accomplishments during his life. He served as a small arms specialist in the Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany. During his time in Germany, he enjoyed traveling to Italy, to explore his wife’s heritage. He also discovered the hobby of boxing while in the army, for which he had a natural talent. Cal had a great work ethic and believed in staying busy and being productive. He was a talented home builder and built both of his homes in Texas with his own bare hands. When he wasn’t working, Cal was an avid fisherman. He enjoyed everything from ice fishing to bay fishing in the ocean. In 1988, he expanded his many talents into rose gardening and his green thumb exploded into becoming a master gardener. He won the recognition of “Consulting Rosarian” for the American Rose Society and was awarded the title of Texas Master Gardner. Grandchildren and great grandchildren were Cal’s biggest source of pride and joy in his retirement. He felt that all children hung the moon. He and Julie spent many decades raising children, blood related or not. For several years, he shuttled great-grandchildren back and forth to school daily. Cal also lent himself to assisting elderly friends and neighbors in any form of services needed. He was a wonderful friend to many. His humorous, witty nature and entertaining storytelling will be greatly missed.
Cal was preceded in death by his parents Samuel and Priscilla Dempsey, his sister Sammy Thomas, and his son Kevin Dempsey. He is survived by his wife Julie of 68 years, daughter Terri and husband Gary Blevins, son Daniel and wife Natalie Dempsey, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Cal was known as “Grandpa” to countless children whose lives he played a role in.
Graveside service for Calvin L. Dempsey will be held at Garden Park Cemetery in Conroe, Texas on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at 2:00pm
