Dennis Michael McHugh

Dennis Michael McHugh, 76 of Plantation, Florida passed away on May 27, 2022.  Dennis was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on September 13, 1945, to Alice and Joseph McHugh. As a young boy, he and his family lived in Europe and various cities in the United States. Later in his teens, he joined the Navy. Finally, upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, Dennis moved to Florida to further his education. 

In 1972, he graduated from the University of Florida College of Law with his Juris Doctor degree and joined the Florida Bar. Throughout his career as a trial attorney, he remained committed to the high ideals of service to Floridians and to the protection of their rights through legal representation. Dennis passionately practiced law for more than 30 years as a member of the Broward County Office of the Public Defender, where he became known for his dedication providing legal defense for the indigent and for his ability to handle the most difficult cases and clients. Dennis retired in 2012, but remained involved in the legal community continuing to attend educational opportunities and providing mentoring to young trial attorneys entering the profession. He had just recently resigned from the Florida Bar this year.

Dennis had a zest for life and adventure, as well as a keen interest in history and geography. Throughout his life, he traveled extensively and enjoyed immersing himself in the culture of the many places he visited around the world. Family and friends were the most important thing to him. He always found time to stay connected with those he cared about. He particularly relished the time he spent with his daughter, Shannon, and grandchildren, Ricky, Ali, and Chris. He loved engaging them in conversation, expanding their horizons with unbelievable experiences, having fun, and creating wonderful memories.

Dennis is predeceased by his parents, Alice and Joseph, and his brother, Ted. Dennis is survived by his sister, Laurette (Sylvia); his brother, Kevin; his daughter, Shannon (John) Krissel; and his grandchildren, Ricky, Ali, and Chris; along with many nephews, nieces, and cousins. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association.