Jay Dempsey

Jay Dempsey of Jamestown, ND, passed away peacefully at home after a long battle with ALS on Saturday October 21st, 2023.

Jay was born in Petaluma CA on May 16th, 1960 to Jim and Joan (Rue) Dempsey. The family later moved to Southern Oregon. Jay attended school in Butte Falls Oregon where he played football for Butte Falls High School.

Jay loved spending his time outdoors hunting, fishing, and ranching along with many other outdoor activities. His love for the mountains and rivers were his playground. In his free time, Jay loved riding his Harley Davidson. Jay first started his excavating career working with his dad paving.

Jay moved to Jamestown ND in 1995 to be with his family where he met the love of his life Brenda. They were married on March 26th, 1999 in Reno Nevada. Jay worked for his uncle Bill Bowen. Jay worked construction and heavy equipment while having a passion for the industry. He worked for Northern Excavating, John T Jones Construction, Wanzek Construction, Park Construction and ended his career with Mortenson Construction as a Heavy Equipment Operator.

Jay is survived by his wife Brenda, 3 sons Shawn Erdahl of Jamestown, Dion Erdahl (Jody) of Lebanon TN, and CJ Ulness (Carissa) of Brainerd MN. 8 Grandchildren, Paytan, Ryan, Kassii, Markus, Kaitlynn, Zach, Aiden & Teddy, 2 Great Grandchildren, Father Jim Dempsey of Oregon, Brother Jerry (Tammy) Dempsey of Oregon, many cousins and great friends.

He was preceded in death by his mom Joan Dempsey, Sister Jami Simmons, Nephew CJ Carr, and grandparents.

A Celebration of Life service will take place at a later date.