Dennis M. McCarthy

Dennis Michael McCarthy, age 78, February 8, 2023.  

Born February 1, 1945 and raised in Cleveland.  Dennis attended St. Ignatius High School and the University of Dayton. After graduating, he was commissioned as a lieutenant in the US Marine Corps, and he married Rosemary Bednorz.

Dennis’ uniformed service continued for over 40 years, both on active duty and in the Marine Corps Reserve, beginning as a platoon commander in Vietnam and culminating as a Lieutenant General commanding Marine Forces Reserve, where he led the largest mobilization of the Corps’ history. After retirement from the Marine Corps, Dennis returned again to national service when he was appointed by the President to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense.

When not in uniform, Dennis was a lawyer in private practice in Columbus, representing clients with skill and compassion.  

Though Dennis acquired many titles in his life, husband, father, and grandfather were his favorites. He and Rosemary returned to Ohio in 2011 to help tend to their family while both their sons were deployed overseas.

He is survived by his wife Rosemary, who was his partner and best friend in all things; by sons Sean (Theresa) and Col Michael (Dr. Britt); and by six grandchildren, Caitlin, Shannon, Connor, Lily, Clare and Jack, and a large extended family.

Friends may call at EGAN-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 403 E. Broad St., on Thursday, Feb 23 from 4-7pm.  Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the chapel at St. Charles Preparatory School, 2010 E. Broad St. on Friday, Feb 24 at 11:00 am with a reception to follow at the Columbus Country Club.  Dennis will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery in the spring.

Memorials to charities of the donor's choice or contributions to the education of your own children and grandchildren are suggested in lieu of flowers. We wish to thank his many friends for their kind wishes and support. We also want to thank the doctors and staff at Mount Carmel East and the James for the extraordinary care they provided him as he battled glioblastoma.  Visit www.egan-ryan.com for condolences.

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