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Brian Keegan Obituary
Brian leaves a very large family who loved him deeply and will dearly miss him. He leaves his parents, William and Marilyn (Joaquin) Keegan of Dudley; 6 brothers and sisters: Marilyn Hanley and her husband Tony of Boston, Katherine Shea and her husband Richie of Wakefield, MA, sister Ann Keegan and brothers Barry Keegan, of Webster, MA and William Keegan of Tewksbury, MA and sister Janice Burgess and her husband Jim of North Grosvenordale, CT. He is also survived by many, many nieces and nephews: Emily Boutilette and her husband Patrick, Sarah Hanley, Timothy and Jennifer Shea, Mike and Daniel Keegan, Kyle, Sean and Erica Keegan, James, Melissa and Angela Burgess: his great-nephew, Stephen Boutilette; great-nieces, Dakota Jane Hanley and Rebecca Boutilette and one great niece on the way. He also leaves his aunt, Eleanor Joaquin; his uncle, Fr. Martin Keegan; uncle Jim Keegan and his wife Marie, uncle Franny Joaquin and his wife Mary. His beloved Auntie Kay pre-deceased him. He had many cousins; step-sons, Chris and Sean, and his beloved animals, Midnight and Cujo.
His love for his family, friends and animals will live on forever.
He was born in Norwood, MA and came to Dudley with his family at the age of ten and lived over 30 years in Dudley and Webster. He was a graduate of SHRHS in Dudley. He worked as a Police Officer with the UMASS / MEMORIAL Police in Worcester. Brian was a reserve officer with the Webster Police. He served the public for over 20 years with service as a Dudley Fire Dept. on-call and volunteer firefighter, an EMT with Webster EMS, Himmer, EasCare and Patriot ambulance companies.
Brian devoted his life to helping others, with his police and emergency service work and always conducted himself with professionalism. If he could help, he would. You couldn't go anywhere with Brian without him knowing someone who greeted him with a big smile. He seemed to know everyone and always had the time to talk. And boy did he know how to chat.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, May 28 from 6 to 9 PM and Thursday, May 29 from 6 to 9 PM at Bartel Funeral Home & Chapel, 33 Schofield Ave., Dudley, MA. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, May 30 at 10:30 AM in St. Anthony of Padua Church, 24 Dudley Hill Rd., Dudley. Burial after cremation will be at a later date in Corbin Cemetery in Dudley. In lieu of flowers, donations to Webster Police Department Reserve Unit, c/o Brian Keegan and any animal humane society would be greatly appreciated.
Brian's guestbook at:
www.bartelfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Brian Keegan
Yvette Besse
May 21, 2024
Brian my h7sband Charlie and I had a lot of great times together. Those times have never been forgotten. You were forever in our hearts.
Lisa (Bugan) Plasse
June 24, 2008
Brian-What I am today is because of you. It was you that convinced me to join the DFD many years ago which got me started on the road to be an EMT which then paved the road for me to become the RN that I am today. It was an honor and a complete pleasure to know you, to work along side of you and to share that piece of my life with you. You touched my life in a very special way. I will always respect you and hold you in my heart. I express my condolences to your family and hope that their sorrow will fade but you shall never be forgotten. Rest in peace and keep on smiling.
Christine Thibodeau
June 3, 2008
Ann,
I did not know Brian, but have been blessed to know you and know what your family means to you. I'm honored that you shared a part of who he was with me. Always know that Brian now will be with you always. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Christine Thibodeau
Renee Roderick
June 2, 2008
Brian you were a dear friend and we had some good times. You were a sweet person with a permanent smile on your face. I will remember you always and you will always have a place in my heart and in my thoughts! Love you! Bill and Marilyn: my thoughts and prayers are with you. I'm so sorry for your loss. Brian was a very special guy and he always knew how to make a smile appear on someone's face! You guys will always be a special and dear part of our lives. send my love to the rest of the family. I love you guys!
Bob Vandal
June 1, 2008
I would like to express my condolences to the Keegan Family. Brian was a real professional police officer. I first met him at a Dunkin Donuts, at about 3 AM. About 1 1/2 years ago, my mom passed away from a long battle with cancer. Brian took care of my entire family, making sure my dad had access to the parking garage whenever he needed it. Brian also arranged for me to park my cruiser close by the door, as I checked in on her, every night. That's what Brian was all about. Helping everybody whenever he could. On behalf of his brothers at the WPI Police Department, thank you for sharing him with us. Brian, until we meet again, at the DD's in Heaven, Keep us safe. Bob Vandal, WPI PD
Chad Deveno
May 31, 2008
I first meet Brian Patrick Keegan in the summer of 1997.
He shook my hand like a gentleman and said “you’re certainly not an Irishman”.
I said how did you guess that and he said “because your last name ends in a vowel” and I knew right then and there that the theory of the rivalry between the Irish and the Italian’s would be proved wrong and boy was it ever.
Over the years Brian translated the definition of the word friend. It is now that I realize that what he is and the influence he had on his family and friends was truly priceless and something that could not be taught out of a text book. It started with loving and devoted parents who instilled love and gentle kindness and those traits were refined by Brian’s sisters, brother and all his nieces and nephews and friends.
Whether it was loving 2 boys as if they were his own or treating all his fellow Firefighter, EMT and Police Officers as family that is what he did. Brian certainly was no mechanic but rendered assistance to a fellow police brethren’s family’s vehicle when he was away in the Sunshine State. Brian’s friendship certainly did not conclude when his friend left to rejoin his roots over 3000 miles away on the West Coast in Fallon Nevada.
Over the last few days it is now ever so clear that I am grasping Brian’s Lesson. To keep it simple and be genuine as that is what Brian is and was.
Brian Patrick Keegan is my friend and I will miss him very much, but while he is now assuming the duty at a higher head quarters he and I will continue to answer the call together.
Ed Lesse
May 30, 2008
Brian, a true friend and inspiration to all. I will miss your professionalism as we conduct our EMT/CPR requalifications. I remember our last words, that I'll see you at the next wrestling match. See you there, Ed
JoAnn Wright
May 30, 2008
Barry,
So sorry for your loss of your brother. My thoughts and prays are with you and your family.
Paul & Pier Cutler
May 30, 2008
Wow Brian, It all I can think of at a time like this. It seems like yesterday when we would stop at the Bouly in Worcester while working. You were a good man and my wife and I enjoyed your company as a partner. May you be blessed in His presence as you have blessed people who crossed your presence during your short time here. Our sympathy and prayers go to the whole Keegan family.
ED LEE
May 30, 2008
DEAR KEEGAN FAMILY,
SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF BRIAN, HE WAS A GREAT AND FUNNY GUY WITH THE BIGGEST SMILE. I WORK AT U-MASS FOR LIFE FLIGHT. HE WILL BE MISSED.
ED LEE (PILOT)
Renelle (Chauvin) Cameron
May 29, 2008
Brians, Great big hugs and great smile an witt will be greatly missed. Mom, Dad believe in God and that Brian is with him now. I remember all the great times and always feeling like I was part of the great loving family you have. With all my love always
Jay Sefton
May 29, 2008
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Ann Beaudry
May 29, 2008
It was a honor to know you Brian, I will miss you dearly. I will alway remember our day's on the W.R.P. together. It's your smile that I will remember the most.
Karen Armenti
May 28, 2008
Although I did not often work with Brian, when I had the opportunity to do so, I always enjoyed his quick wit and huge sense of humor. He was always one to make whoever he was with smile and laugh. I am fortunate to have known and worked with him for many years at Memorial.
With a family as large as Brian's, I can only hope you can find comfort with each other during this tragic time. My thoughts are with you all.
Vicky (Fant) Weaver
May 28, 2008
Brian was a great kid and I'll always remember him. At times he was like a little brother to me. I spent many days at the Keegan House during my High School Days. Brian's Mom and Dad where like my second parents. I will always remember him as fun loving kid with a great smile and a good attitude. All my love is sent to the Keegan Family.
Sue Richard
May 28, 2008
Bri, From the moment I met you, I knew we would be friends. Your friendship and guidance influenced my decision to join the DFD and (on several occasions ) to keep the strength to stay as long as I did. You were my first Dudley pal. I can only imagine how different my life would be without having known you. I love you and your whole family forever. You have, always will have, and always have had a VERY special place in my heart. I will truly miss your teddy bear hugs, your smile and your sense of humor. I know Heaven is a better place now. Please put in a good word with the Big Guy for Dan the Man cause he wants to be a police officer and a "Fida fighta". See you again some day, my friend. XO P.S. I will make sure you get a "hymn" and an "Octobah".
Guylaine & Jim Ciasullo
May 28, 2008
We have many fond memories of Brian coming across the street with Dunkin Donuts coffee in hand and a big smile on his face. Whether it be just to talk, play with our Bichon, Max, or help out with a family situation, Brian will be missed. Anytime we needed a favor, he was always there on a moment's notice. God bless you Brian
Jeffrey Popp
May 28, 2008
Its not fair that the good people are always taken away. But the times we shared and the laughter we had I will always remember. Take care my friend til we meet again. Love ya Bro! Poppy
Trish and Jon St.Marie
May 28, 2008
Our condolences to the Keegan Family in this time of great sorrow. We were proud to serve with him on the Dudley Fire Department for several years and even more proud to call him a friend.
We will miss you, Brian.
Phil Foggs
May 28, 2008
I will miss you my friend. Good conversations, jokes and laughter shared. Moments remembered and kept. Good bye be at Peace.
Jennifer Benoit- Sullivan
May 28, 2008
Brian, I will miss you. I can't believe you are gone. You were a great friend and I could always count on you for a good laugh. My thoughts and prayers go out to your parents and family.
alan borgal
May 27, 2008
What a great tribute to an obviously fine officer. As a State Humane Officer I ran into Brian in Webster some years ago and he recognized I was a MA SSPO. He talked mostly about his animals to me and I always remembered this. I am deeply sorry for your loss. People and animals both lost a friend today. Lt. Alan B. Borgal - Animal Rescue League of Boston
Christopher Pysell
May 27, 2008
Man, Brian, it feels like it was yesterday since I first met you. I still remember the chats we had from small trips to Dunkin Donuts to the chats outside by the pool. You taught me so much like some tips on how to be a cop, how to be a perfect gentle man, and about how to have fun and I will always treasure those memories. I miss it when you talked about your past events and seeing you at the police dept. But I know now, that you're in a better place now and that is all that matters. You were like an uncle and you were a great one too. Now, I know I have a guardian angle that is looking over me. Your pal, Chris
Tim Eldredge
May 27, 2008
I knew Brian for a number of years, and he was always smiling. If only more people took the time to be as kind to others as he did, then this world would be a better place. Rest in peace my friend.
Allie Pysell
May 27, 2008
Hi, Brian Its me Allie! I miss you soooo much already. And I bet Petey does TOO! I know you WILL watch over everyone who cared for you! ?????????????????????????
mary wyne
May 27, 2008
very nice person always asking if he can be of any assistance sadly missed south 5 night crew
Charles, Yvette, James + Bob Besse
May 27, 2008
Brian will forever be in our hearts. He was there for us when-ever he could be. He has a special place in our hearts, because he was there with us when our son got killed. He had a heart of gold and he used it in any and every way. We will miss you.
Patti Palmer-Georges
May 27, 2008
My condolences go out to the Keegan family. Brian was a great person who truly cared about people and the public.
Timothy Klys
May 27, 2008
My condolences to the Keegan Family and his many friends. We shared many laughs over the years that I've known him and he will be truly missed. He was an inspiration to all who knew him.
James Hoover
May 27, 2008
Brian,
you will be greatly missed, I have known and worked with you for many years and you were always a gentleman, and a profesional no matter what the situation was. I was surprised and saddened to hear you had passed so soon. I'm sure that God has a plan for you, like they say "only the good die young" and you certainly were one of the good ones.
So rest in peace Brian, and hopefully one day we will meet again and catch up.
michael keegan
May 27, 2008
Uncle Brian,
I will miss you alot, i was very proud to know a man like you, i will try and live my life as you lived yours with kindness and respect for all people
i am very sorry to nana and papa and all of my family that i cannot be there
Natalie Cross
May 27, 2008
Dear Em, Patrick and Family,
I am so sorry about Uncle Brian. He was such a wonderful man. Always smiling. I remember all the parties, the laughing, the jokes, the happiness. Thanks for sharing him with us.
Love you all,
Nat and the kids
Sarah Hanley
May 27, 2008
Uncle Bri... we will all mis you emencely. At least you'll be watching over your new little neice or nephew, keep the new baby safe and give my Brother Jason a hug for me when you see him... Love you lots and oh by the way i stole your webster pd sweater... i don't think you'll be needing it anymore.
John Morin
May 27, 2008
On behalf of Keegan Enterprises and all it's drivers we send our heartfelt sorrow to him and his family. We will miss him and his smile.
James Murphy
May 27, 2008
Brian, You could make anyone smile at anytime.Thank You for your professionalism and sense of humor. The desire that Officer Keegan has shown our the years showed his desire to serve and help ours. Brian Keegan leaves as a highly respected Police Officer. But most importantly a friend to all.
Mike Kehoe
May 27, 2008
Brian, you will be missed very much and we will miss your smile.
Scott & Tammy Poplawski
May 27, 2008
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Brian's passing. May he rest in peace.
Our Sincere Condolences to his loved ones
Dawn Pysell
May 27, 2008
Brian, you will be greatly missed! Chris and Allie always felt that you were a special Uncle to them. They know that you will be watching over them.
Jill Odgren
May 27, 2008
To Brian's family. He was a great guy. He was a teacher when I was in EMT school and he had the patience of a saint. I learned a lot from him and I am very sad to know that he is gone. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time. He will be missed greatly.
Scott Lombard
May 27, 2008
You will be sorely missed my friend. I guess that old saying is true...only the good die young. Rest in Peace.
Dianne Greene
May 27, 2008
Brian,I know how you loved your work,and helping care for people. Your kindness to people was well known.Now it is your turn to be cared for in the hands of God.You will be missed by many. God Bless.
Daniel Megas
May 27, 2008
Brian, you will be greatly missed by all the people who knew you, god bless you and your loved ones.
Bruce Spiewakowski
May 27, 2008
Brian is a true professional who dedicated himself to public safety. I had the pleasure of working with for many years. He was always friendly and receptive and he always maintained his upbeat attitude. My sincere condolences to the entire Keegan family. Brian will be greatly missed by everyone he served and everyone fortunate enough to get to know him.
M Marcelonis (Landry)
May 27, 2008
Brian was a good friend of my family. He was a kind gentleman and will be missed terribly. My sincere condolences go out to his family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
ELIZABETH COLLAZO
May 27, 2008
MAY YOU R.I.P BRI... YOU WILL BE MISSED. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY.
Charlie Phipps
May 27, 2008
Brian was one of the best, he was one of kind, He was the type of guy that you are proud to call a friend. He was also one of the best partners I have had working the ambulance. He was always there when you needed him, he was an Great friend. I will miss Brian, especially on Nov. 3rd. as we both shared the same birthday, he always called on that day no matter what he was doing just to say "happy birthday brother". Brian you are a true friend I will miss you brother.
Tara Savage
May 27, 2008
I worked with Brian at Memorial. I was devistated to learn of his passing. He was such a great guy, very funny, polite and caring. I always felt safe at work knowing he was around. May his family find peace in knowing he was loved by many. God Bless.
Lindsay Pooler
May 27, 2008
Brian will be greatly missed, he was an outstanding friend. God bless the friends and family.
YVETTE ROSELUND
May 27, 2008
ONE MINUTE YOUR THERE, AND MINUTE YOUR NOT.
ONE CHANCE AT LIFE. AND THATS ALL YOU'VE GOT.
IT SEEMS TO ALWAYS HIT YOU WHEN YOUR DOWN, AND MAKES YOU FEEL THAT ALL THAT'S LEFT TO DO IS FROWN.
A FRIEND, A RELATION, JUST SOMEONE YOU KNOW,
THEY ARE ALL HERE FOR A REASON AND THEN THEY MUST GO.
IT'S HARD TO COPE WITH, CONFIDENCE YOU LACK
TO KNOW THEY ARE GONE AND WILL NEVER BE BACK.
R.I.P. BRI YOUR FRIEND, SKI
Damaris Speranza
May 27, 2008
I worked with Brian at Memorial in the ED and he was always the most calm and nicest person to speak with. I am deeply saddened by his unfortunate death. All my regards to the family. you will be in my prayers.
Allisa R. & Josh B.
May 27, 2008
We all miss you so much Brian; continue to spread happiness in heaven.
Luis Santos
May 26, 2008
Keeg, you know what we where about and what we stood for when we wore that nice french blue uniform, and the white and green..
God Bless You my brother !!!!!
Tu amigo,
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