Walnut Creek

James T. Dempsey (93) passed away after along and wonderful life, surrounded by friends and family. He is survived by his daughter Colleen Dempsey and her wife Linda as well as his grandsons James and Jason Cabanski and great-granddaughters Ava and Sunny Cabanski. He is pre-deceased by his first wife Marilyn, sons Michael and Timothy and his second wife Susanbeth. He will be remembered by his many nieces and nephews and extended family of the Lincoln clan.

James was born in Oakland, CA to James and Dorothy Dempsey. He attended the School of the Madelaine and graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in journalism.

He was also a proud member of the US Army during the Korean Conflict. His first job was at the Berkeley Gazette at age 11 as anewspaper boy. Years later he became the Managing Editor. After the Gazette folded he became Assistant Vice President of Public Relations for AT&T.

During the 60’s Jim turned a hobby into a business. He created A & D Stamps and Coins. It started when his beloved sister Barbara bought him his first stamp album at age 7. His hobby flourished, eventually causing him to leave AT&T for greener pastures.

As afreshman in college, Jim met the love of his life Marilyn Schoettler. They married in 1956 and later that year she gave birth to their first son Timothy. Soon after came Colleen and Michael. Sadly, throughout their long years together, Jim and Marilyn endured the loss of their sons Michael and Timothy. This was particularly difficult for Marilyn to bear and when diagnosed with cancer, she refused treatment. Her remaining time with Jim was a “golden period of love”. She passed February 1, 1997. Jim persevered after losing the love of his life.

A& D was growing. Jim hired Sue Englehard, a fellow Cal alum with philatelic experience to help with the business.

As time progressed they grew closer and were married in 2001. The business became a behemoth. They were a great team and loving companions until she passed in 2021.

As he reached his 90’s, Jim felt himself slowing down a little. He celebrated his last show at Westpex in 2023, surrounded by fellow dealers and customers. All friends who had come to know and love him. Jim made the most of every minute. He loved journalism and had a passion for writing. He worked right to the end, creating a memorable life and a business legacy. Jim held true to his motto that “retirement would be announced during his eulogy”. He will me missed by all who knew him.

Aviewing will be held at Queen of Heaven Chapel 1965 Reliez Valley Road Lafayette, CA 94549 Friday January 31st 4-8:30pm Mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 860 Oak Grove Road Concord, CA 94518 Saturday February 1st 10am This will be followed by the committal at Queen of Heaven Cemetery 1965 Reliez Valley Road Lafayette, CA 94549 A celebration of life will begin directly after the burial at 2541 Venado Camino Walnut Creek, CA 94598