Dennis Michael Sharkey, 76, of Huntley, died peacefully November 14, 2022.
Dennis was born March 2, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Andrew and Bridget Sharkey. He proudly served as a 1st Lt. in the United States Army during the Viet Nam War. He was awarded a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for Valor. He worked for AT&T and in later years The Dept. of Homeland Security. He was proud to be both a citizen of the US and Ireland-his parents' homeland. He earned his master’s degree in business administration as well as a fellowship in computer science at MIT. He was a brilliant, funny, curious man, who was truly devoted to his immediate and extended family. Dennis will be missed by all who know him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Kathleen, his children, Michael (Tracy) Sharkey, James (Stephanie) Sharkey and Erin (Andrew Jerram) Sharkey. By five granddaughters, brothers, Peter (Patricia) and Andrew Sharkey (Angela) and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, and his son, Dennis, Jr.
Visitation will be held Friday, November 25, 2022, from 11am until 1pm at DeFiore Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1pm at St. Mary Catholic Church-10307 Dundee Road, Huntley. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Wellness House in Hinsdale, IL.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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You live on in the most cherished parts of our hearts. Rest peacefully, Dad.
We offer our condolences for the loss of this special husband, father and grandfather; and that the old Irish saying comforts you all in your grief: May the road rise up to meet you, and the wind be ever at your back.
My sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Sharkey -Jerram families. I was fortunate and blessed to know Dennis through his family and he profoundly touched my heart ❤️. Dennis was a wonderful, funny man and father and will be deeply missed and forever loved. love to you all during this difficult time x
So sorry to hear about this. Mr. Sharkey was a great man, exemplary father and war hero. I will remember him for his sense of humor and I wish the Sharkey family the best in these difficult times.
I have so many wonderful memories of Dennis while I was friends with his daughter Erin in high school. He was always so easy to talk to, patient, and always had the best tunes playing in his car. I can’t listen to Sinead O’Connor’s ‘Nothing Compares’ without thinking of him. “Erin’s Dad is Rad” is what I wrote on a picture I took of him a long time ago. The world has lost a great man today and I’m sad to learn of his passing.
Our sincere condolences to the Sharkey family for the huge loss of a distinguished individual who cultivated love and affection throughout his life. Let the supreme Lord shower his blessings to the bereaved family to bear the pain and create a special place for the departed soul to rest peacefully in heaven!
My condolences to your entire family. Dennis was my neighbor in Knightsbridge (Schaumburg) and I remember him fondly. He had a great sense of humor, was friendly to all, and celebrated life. Rest in peace Dennis. You will be missed.
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. RIP Dennis.
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time. May happy memories and time with family ease your grief and lift your hearts.
I am truly sorry to hear about Denny. I loved hearing about the many beautiful memories that were shared to me. My heart feels your great loss. May the dear Lord continue to bless Denny and the Sharkey family.