The FM community mourns the loss of Dempsey’s beloved Public House member

FARGO, ND (Valley News Live) – Many people in Fargo-Moorhead are sharing what they remember about Jeffrey Fonder. Fonder, the beloved general manager and bartender of Dempsey’s Public House in downtown Fargo, died suddenly earlier this week.

“Jeffrey was more than just a member of our downtown community; he was her heart and soul and his friendship will be greatly missed,” a post on the Fargo Underground Facebook page said.

Several other downtown Fargo businesses took to Facebook to share their condolences for Fonder’s death:

“Our hearts go out to all our friends and family downtown today. Fonder was a beloved person and a pillar of our downtown community. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. My deepest condolences to Dempsey, family and friends. You are loved by so many, we will miss you.” – Marge’s bar

“The Fargo-Moorhead community lost a dear friend and bartender this week. Fonder was a longtime bartender and manager at Dempsey’s Public House. If you’ve ever been there, you’ve probably seen it, and if you’re lucky, you might even have been served by it. Over time, it has proven to be a staple of our little downtown community, and certainly a staple of the Dempsey family. He had such an impact on so many people who were lucky enough to be served by him over the years. Everyone should have a shot of Goldschlager in his honor today; and again on Monday at the Sanctuary Event Center as we celebrate him and the life he lived with all the people who loved him and loved him most. Much love from your Empire bar family on the road. Until we meet again, my friend.” – Empire Tavern

“Today, we remember our good friend Jeffrey Fonder. One of the best people I’ve ever met.” – Mick’s office

Dempsey’s Public House says a celebration of life service will be held Monday, Aug. 19 at 3 p.m. at the Sanctuary Event Center. Dempsey’s will be closed that day.

The Fargo Underground says: “If you’re visiting downtown in the coming days, know that the service industry and community outside is suffering, so be nicer to everyone you meet. Fonder would have done that for all of us!”

A GoFundMe for Fonder’s family has been set up and linked here.

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