Obituary of Michael J. Hennessy, Sr.

Michael J. Hennessy, 61, died on Sunday, November 21, 2021 in Marco Island, Florida.  Mike, the son of John J. Hennessy and Vincent Ann (Lamenza) Hennessy, was born in New Brunswick, NJ and resided in Marco Island, Florida.

Mike earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Rider College in 1982.  He then started his career with Med Publishing as a sales trainee, eventually advancing to the position of Chief Operating Officer.  Guided by the principles of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, Mike launched, developed, and led many successful ventures that are dedicated to improving quality of life through health care communications, education, and research.  Most recently, Mike was the Chairman and CEO of MJH Life Sciences.  Over the years, his vision grew MJH Life Sciences into the largest, privately held medical media company in North America.

Mike’s counsel and insight had been sought by several organizations, including his alma mater, Rider University, where he served on its Board of Trustees and was elected to the executive committee.  He was a champion of Rider programs and established the Hennessy Fund for the Rebovich Institute for the New Jersey Politics.  In recognition of his dedication and service, the University awarded Mike with the Gordon E. Prichard Award for Volunteer Service. To further that legacy and in remembrance of Mike’s beloved wife, the Mike & Patti Hennessy Foundation recently provided generous support towards the development of a new wing of Rider’s Science and Technology Center to encourage future generations to collaborate in the areas of health, science, and technology.  

Mike had a passion and was active in politics and for a period of time published the trade journal, Campaigns & Elections.  He had a long record of service at the local level with a focus on veteran and environmental issues and coaching little league. 

Above all Mike was a devoted family man and his legacy and “family first” mantra will live on through his children, their spouses, and his ten grandchildren.

Mike was preceded in death by his college sweetheart and beloved wife of 36 years, Patrice Lynn Hennessy of Millstone, New Jersey.

Mike is survived by his children and their spouses, Shannon Hennessy Pulaski and husband Matthew, Ashley Hennessy Talamo and her husband Philip, Michael Hennessy, Jr. and his wife Rachel, Christopher Hennessy Sr. and his wife Jordan.  He is also survived by the loves of his life, his grandchildren, Brooke, Riley, Luke, Philip, Hailey, Harper, MJ, Maggie, Christopher Jr. and Eric.

Visitation will be on Monday, November 29, 2021 from 4 PM to 8 PM at the M. David DeMarco Funeral Home, Inc - 205 Rhode Hall Rd., Monroe Township, NJ  08831 - www.demarcofuneralhome.com.  A funeral liturgy will be 10:30 AM on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at St. Anthony of Padua RC Church - 251 Franklin St., Hightstown, NJ  08520.

In lieu of flowers and for those who desire, memorial contributions can be sent to the Mike and Patti Hennessy Foundation at PO BOX 692 Cranbury, NJ 08512.