Frank ‘Dempsey’ DiMeo, 87, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on December 3, 2022 at his residence. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Cosimo and Rosaria (DiCesare) DiMeo.
Frank began working at the International Paper Mill at age 18. He proudly served in the United States Army as Military Policeman from 1958 until his honorable discharge in 1960, serving in Korea. He was recalled in 1962 to serve on JFK’s Minutemen Mission for the Cuban Missle Crisis Incident. Frank returned home and continued his career in law enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff with the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department. After retirement from the department, Frank became the Co-Proprietor of Rainbow Security in Niagara Falls, NY. On February 29, 1996, he married Virginia L. Ackerman.
Dempsey was a skilled vocalist, and sang around Niagara Falls and Buffalo at many speakeasys. He was well known for his smooth vocal stylings and was a staple in the local and larger communities, and professionally recorded “Unforgettable” and “Fly Me To The Moon” with his daughter, DeeAnn. He was a proud Buffalo Bills fan, and enjoyed walking and riding his bike on Pine Avenue. Dempsey also enjoyed dancing, going to the casino, and playing poker. Frank was a huge support and pillar of strength to his family and friends, even after his struggles with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease.
In addition to his wife of 26 years, Frank is survived by his children, DeeAnn Tompkins, and Michael A. DiMeo; his step-children, Vincent (Karri) Bonura, Anthony G. (Diana) Bonura, and Josephine (Scott) Murdock; his grandchildren, Bella DiMeo, Gabriel D. DiMeo, Gracie Tompkins, Silvana Bonura, Gabriela Bonura, Vincent Bonura III and Taylor Murdock; his Godson, Anthony DiFranco, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. Frank was predeceased by his son, Frank M. DiMeo, his grandson, William M. Tompkins, and his siblings, Lena LaScala, Irma (late Charles) Montagna, Rose (late Sam) Amato, Vincent ‘Jimmy’ (late Carol) DiMeo, and Louis (late Annie) DiMeo.
Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.
