Surrounded by his loving family, Dennis Geary of California passed away at Scripps Encinatas Hospital, on January 22, 2009.
He was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, on April 1, 1929, the son of Edward and Lillian (Kiernan) Geary. A World War II Veteran, Geary served his country in the United States Army.
During the 1940's he not only held amateur heavyweight boxing titles in Massachusetts, but his fierce competitive nature also provided him with enjoyment from several unsanctioned bouts. As a Southern Californian, Mr. Geary was a very successful businessman and entrepreneur in the metal forming industry. A self-made man, in the true sense of the word, family and friends learned that he loved to give advice, even when not asked for. He will be sorely missed and long-remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and others as a larger-than-life role model who greatly influenced them in a positive way. He was generous, direct and always available to help others in their times of need.
Dennis was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Ann Geary, whom he loved dearly; a loss from which he never fully recovered.
Mr. Geary is survived by his children: Brian Geary of Del Mar, CA, Debi Geary of Trabuco Canyon, CA, Michael Geary of Kona, Hawaii, Lynn Gruwell Chambers of Gosport, Indiana, Greg Gruwell of Honolulu, Hawaii, and Jon Gruwell of Kona, Hawaii. Also his grandchildren: Mitchell, Bree, Shea, and Paige Geary of Del Mar, CA, and Karli Chambers of Gosport, Indiana
He is also survived by sisters Constance Madigan of Revere, MA, Jessie Geary of Saugus, MA, sister and brother-in-law, Evelyn and Dennis Sullivan of Stoneham, MA; brothers and sister-in-laws John and Marie Geary of Chelmsford MA; Walter and Martha Geary of Rowley, MA. Dennis was the brother of the late Elizabeth Geary, Marie Lynch, and Robert Geary.
Family and friends are kindly invited to attend a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Michael the Archangel Chapel on the grounds of the Chelsea Soldiers Home, 91 Crest Avenue, CHELSEA on Friday morning, January 30th at 10 AM. Visiting Hours will be held in the Smith Funeral Home, 125 Washington Avenue, CHELSEA on Thursday from 4-8 PM and on Friday morning beginging at 9 AM at St. Michael's Chapel. Additional Funeral Services will be held next week at St. Patricks Church in Carlsbad, California. Expressions of sympathy in Mr. Geary's name may be made to the Chelsea Soldiers Home, Television Fund, c/o The Commandants Office, 91 Crest Avenue, Chelsea, MA 02150