Gerald E. "Jerry" O'Keefe

Gerald E. "Jerry" O'Keefe Richland Gerald E. "Jerry" O'Keefe, 86, of Richland and formerly of Battle Creek, died unexpectedly at his home Wednesday, September 17, 2008. He was born in Battle Creek, MI, to Clarence and Harriett (Terry) O'Keefe, on June 22, 1922. Jerry attended Springfield High School and then served with the U.S. Navy, until being discharged in 1946. He retired from Associated Truck Lines, where he was employed over 25 years. He had previously worked 19 years for the former Railroad Express. Surviving are his wife, Beverly J. (Swartz); sons, Michael (Linda) O'Keefe and Patrick (Debra) O'Keefe; grandchildren, Mary O'Keefe and James (Amanda) O'Keefe; stepsons, Dennis (Pam) Reed, Mahlon (Debbie) Tobias, Tim (Tamera) Tobias and their families; a sister, Dorothy (Jim) Kleyenburg; and a brother, Ronald (Kathy) O'Keefe. He was formerly married to Marjorie (Erskine) Kline. Jerry was preceded in death by his second wife, Loraine (Brown) and is also survived by her daughters, Susan (Dale) Rohde, MaryEllen (Bruce) LaBrie, Patricia (Dan) Kramer and Anita (Scott) Ludwig and their families. He was also preceded in death by a son, Dennis, two sisters and two brothers. Jerry enjoyed all sports and was a current competitive bowler and golfer. He loved to play cards, dance and tell jokes. He also enjoyed working in his yard, projects around the home, helping others, and most of all spending time with his family and many friends. Jerry's zest and joy for life was infectious to all who knew him and he will be fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to have shared moments of his life. At the request of the family, friends may call after 4:00 p.m. Sunday at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home where they will be received 4-6 p.m. Funeral services to celebrate Jerry's life will be held at the funeral home 1:00 p.m. Monday, September 22, 2008. Military honors and interment will follow at Ft. Custer National. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com