Martin Joseph Heneghan
January 21, 1933 - December 13, 2020
Laguna Beach California
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Martin Joseph Heneghan
January 21, 1933 - December 13, 2020
Laguna Beach California
Obituary
Loving husband, dedicated father and enduring public servant, Martin Joseph Heneghan, known as “Joe” throughout his adult life and professional career, was a pioneer in the early days of Orange County’s District Attorney’s Office. After serving in the Marine Corps as an Artillery Officer, he went on to Fordham Law School where he graduated first in his class. After a few short years as a New York City deputy DA, where he honed his hard-nosed skills, he moved his young family to Southern California to help set a precedent within the newly assigned OC legal system that was to be a landmark in an area of the country where perpetual crime would take no foothold. Having prosecuted many notorious criminals, as well as the only minor ever to be sentenced to life in prison for a heinous act of murder, he continued a strand of prosecutions that helped create the safe environment Orange County has known since.
Joe went on to serve as a municipal court justice and retired as a criminal defense attorney, often taking on cases, pro bono, giving back to the community he loved and served for six decades. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan, his three sons, Joe, Greg, and Daniel, daughters in law, Cindy and Amy, and his six grandchildren, Megan, Jack, Joe, Sally, James, and Kelly, and his dog, Mocha.
7 responses to Martin Joseph Heneghan
Michael L Duncan says:
January 17, 2021
One of the truly fine people I’ve known.
LAURA WERNER says:
January 20, 2021
Joe was always so kind and sincere when he spoke to me. I appreciated knowing him very much.
Matthew Dziurzynski says:
January 21, 2021
Joe,
We meet by chance, but I think God had it planned. You helped change my life, taught me many lessons, stood by me and me counseled me during some of my most difficult times. You are a legend in our group, may you Rest In Peace and enjoy being with our maker in heaven.
Nancy A Friend says:
January 24, 2021
We are sorry to hear that Mr. Heneghan passed away.
Wishing Joe, Greg, Amy, and their family peace in this time of grief.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all off you.
Warmly,
Nancy, Robert, Alex, and Michael Friend
Kathleen Hanes says:
February 28, 2021
Dear Heneghan family:
You have my sincerest condolences. Please note that my parents Meg and Jim Buckley are already in heaven to greet your husband, father and grandfather. The times we spent as neighbors in Dana Point, CA were some of my happiest childhood memories. I still miss Orange County beaches. All my best. Kathleen Buckley-Hanes San Jose, CA
howard banney says:
April 3, 2021