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Capt. William O'Keefe
Capt. William O'Keefe
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William O'Keefe Obituary
One night at a club in Staten Island, two young men approached two young women. They paired off and chatted for a few minutes, until one of the men whispered to his friend that he wanted to switch partners. So they did. And that is how William O'Keefe met his wife, Ginny.
Never loud or aggressive, Captain O'Keefe was nevertheless assertive. (He was the one who wanted to switch partners.) He had a quiet way that served him well as a firefighter, and, later, an officer. "He wasn't a blowhard," Mrs. O'Keefe said. "He was never boastful. He was a gentleman."
The only thing Captain O'Keefe, 48 and in the best shape of his life, liked more than running was watching his daughters, Tara, 20, and Kaitlin, 17, compete at track meets. With his flexible schedule, he spent many days cheering them on. "He was proud of that. No regrets," Mrs. O'Keefe said. "He was a great father and a great husband. He was the best."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Joanne Arias
September 11, 2022
“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.” - Cicero
My bracelet is on.
Barbara Olderburg
September 11, 2021
Fulfilling a covenant, passing my bracelet on to history and its future.
Barbara Oldenburg
September 11, 2020
Memory bows beneath the yoke of yesterday,
Gratitude traverses the edge of tomorrow.
My bracelet is on.
Patricia O, Keefe-Guli
January 20, 2020
Always in our thoughts and hearts
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Alexander
January 19, 2020
I thank you for what you did on that awful morning in NYC. Rest blissfully....
Barbara Oldenburg
September 11, 2019
The hole in the world fills with each remembrance of those who rushed toward danger. My bracelet is on.
Lucas Family
December 22, 2018
Our deep thoughts of sympathy we send to your family for your loss. Many years have passed but we did want to mention that others still do care. May God always give the needed help and comfort. Bill touched the lives of many others and will always be fondly thought of.
Barbara Weimar
September 13, 2018
We never forget
Kathy
September 11, 2018
Never Forgotten!
Tom H
September 11, 2018
Today, 09/11/2018, ( 17 years ... ) we remember you Billy. Thank you for courage and service ... We will never forget. Wishing all the best to your family and friends. Much regards.
Barbara Oldenburg
September 11, 2018
As I slip on my bracelet, I am reminded of the timeless resonance of poets and heroes in the words of Richard Lovelace: I could not love thee, dear, so much/ Loved l not honor more. Barbara Oldenburg September 11, 2018 Commack, New York
Eileen Gluth
September 9, 2018
Ginny, Tara and Kaitlin and family. My name is Eileen. I live down outside of Atlanta Georgia. I'm originally from Allentown, PA. I just wanted to let you know that I'm carrying your husband/dad in my heart today as I participate in the Terry Farrell stair climb. (2018)
I just wanted to let you all know that I'm thinking and praying for all of you today. My husband is a firefighter in Barrow County, Georgia.
Barbara Oldenburg
September 11, 2017
Remembering so that the next generation never forgets.
Barbara Oldenburg
September 11, 2016
Remembering our country's heroes is now more important than ever.
My bracelet is on.
S J. FrisciaIII
September 16, 2015
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
The copper bracelet that bears your name
Barbara Oldenburg
September 11, 2015
September 11, 2015
Remembering your sacrifice.
Barbara Oldenburg
September 10, 2014
As I have done for so many years, on this solemn day once again I slip onto my wrist the copper bracelet that bears the name of Capt. William S. O'Keefe,and I light a candle to honor his courage and his family's sacrifice.
karen cortes
May 9, 2014
hello my name is karen cortes campos and i go to klein high school that is a lovely school that is located on houston texas, im working on a project where i get to choose a lovely hero from 9/11 and get to make a movie about them, i have been reading about captain o'keefe, and i will love to choose him and my make movie about him, all i need is more information about him, and i was wondering if you could help me with that please, my email is [email protected] and my phone # is 2816735724, please contact me as soon as possible if you are willing to help, thanks, god bless you
Matthew Renteria
September 11, 2013
God bless the O'Keefe family...
Patricia O'Keefe - Guli
May 2, 2013
I love that Billy's memory lives on almost 12 years later! He was such a beautiful man and we love him and miss him dearly.
Lindsay
May 1, 2013
Hello, my name is Lindsay and I am an 8th grader from Maryland. I am currently researching William O'Keefe. I am very sorry for your loss and inconvenience of this great man's death. It was a tragic and unfortunate event. This story has truly touched my heart. I would love to learn more about this man's life and who he truly was. Please contact me if you can. Again I am truly sorry. God bless you.
KATHY SCHLOTTERBECK
September 11, 2012
WE REMEMBER RIP
Dottie Rizzo
September 14, 2011
The husband of one of my best friends. Ginny & I held hands watching the towers fall never knowing that Bill was in one.
Rest in peace, my man. You are truly one of the BRAVEST!!!
Kira Grischow
September 13, 2011
To the family of Captain O'Keefe...I have been wearing a 9/11 memorial bracelet engraved with Capt. O'Keefe's name since 2001. I chose his name because as a child, my nickname was Keef. Originally, the bracelet was stainless steel and I had to remove it in order to go through airport security. Once while passing through the scanner, the TSA agent asked me to take off my bracelet because it made the machine alarm. I asked if I could please leave it on, that I never removed it. A marine overheard the exchange and said quietly to the agent, "let her pass through." I have since had the bracelet remade out of sterling so as not to have to take it off for any reason. I share this story only because I want you to know that your loved one, and that terrible day, will never be forgotten.
John & Christine Sabatini
September 12, 2011
I am sorry for your loss. Our condolences & prayers are with you & your family.
Charles Hewlett
September 12, 2011
It is an honor to share my thoughts and prayers with those whom have watched over us and kept us safe. My God always hold you and yours in his hands!
God Bless you all!
Chip Johnson
September 12, 2011
My hat is off for all that run toward danger with the sole purpose to save live and property and yet has the option to runaway.
Chip Johnson
Jacky Stutz
September 10, 2011
May the Lord continue to watch over your family, friends & all who miss you. Your cousin honors your memory well. My son in law is NYFD, I know you and all the other NYFD heros watch over all the brave fire fighters in the USA. I thank you for that.
Patti O'Keefe
September 9, 2011
RIP Billy....
you are loved and missed every single day by your family. Watch over your beautiful girls.....til we meet again.
<3 <3 <3
Barbara Oldenburg
September 8, 2011
I continue to wear the copper bracelet that bears Capt. William O'Keefe's name. Ten years later, a new generation emerges, many of whom were too young to remember 911. It is both my duty as a teacher and my privilege as an American to keep alive the history and the memory of those who perished.
Barbara Weimar
September 8, 2011
I cannot believe that you have been gone for 10 years Bill. We all miss you and you will never be forgotten no matter how many years pass. I wish you eternal peace in heaven.
Margaret Delaney
September 5, 2011
Never forgotten. You live on in the eyes and hearts of your family.
Linda Meyers
September 1, 2011
God has another cheer leader.
kaaren
July 2, 2011
I still can't read this with dry eyes. we all miss you so much, I miss your smile.
April 14, 2011
Miss You Billy
Barbara Weimar
September 11, 2010
I think of you often Bill but especially today on September 11th. We all miss you and will never forget you. RIP.
karen olsen
September 11, 2010
Hi Billy,
9 years and the thought of you not being here doesnt get any easier as time goes by. I know you are always looking over us with Joe and Ali by your side. Tara and I joked a couple weeks ago of the times you caught us sneaking back in the house. We were not very good at it but thank you again for not telling my mom! I miss you everyday and know that your love and presence will be felt during this most exciting time for Tara & Paul. <3 always, Ka
Patricia (O'Keefe) Guli
September 11, 2010
Thinking of you Billy.....and all the years of love and laughter we shared. We miss you so much!!!
Patricia Guli (O'Keefe)
August 9, 2010
thinking of you Billy....
Patricia O'Keefe-Guli
February 24, 2010
As St Patrick's day approaches, I still miss seeing you at the parade....
we love and miss you so much!!! RIP
Rich Boehme
December 19, 2009
Bill, This is from the THS class of 1970. You will always be a hero to all your classmates. As we celebrate our 40th reunion on June 12 2010 we want you to know that you and your bravery will be in our hearts & there will be a place for you there.Our prayers are with you and your family and you will never be forgotten
Paul Kurella
September 11, 2009
Mr. O'Keefe:
It was great to officially "meet" you, only a few short months ago.
After 2+ years of going out with your daughter, I feel like it would have been a tremendous privilege to have actually known you as a man, and as a friend.
You are thought of frequently, not only by your family -- but by someone like me, who never got the pleasure/opportunity.
Please continue to watch over everyone, especially your daughters. The love they have for you is never-ending, and I think you'd be proud of the women they've become over the past 8-years.
Rest In Peace -- We'll Never Forget what happened, and Will Always Remember what you did.
Thank You,
Paul Kurella
September 12, 2008
In loving memory
Robert Walsh
September 11, 2007
You will always be remember for your bravery and self sacrifice. You will never be forgotten and your memory lives on.
Kristin DeAngelis
September 11, 2007
Six years, I can't believe it has been that long. Seems like it was yesterday, you were driving us to a track meet, or we were talking about survivor. You would be so proud of your girls, they grew up very nicely. I am sure your influence is the reason behind that. I think about you often, and it always brings a smile to my face. You were a wonderful man, who I am proud to have known. I am so greatful for that. Keep looking over your family... they will always need you.
P Tabbernor
January 18, 2007
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 22, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Ana
November 5, 2006
I am so sorry for the passing of this brave man, who is missed so much by his loving family and friends.
Tara O'Keefe
October 1, 2006
It has now been five years and the pain of loosing you has only gotten worse. Everyone said that time heals all wounds, but not this one. You were loved so very much and you are still loved. I think about you everyday single day. You were the best person I ever had in my life. I strive everyday to make you proud just how I am so very proud of you. YOu will always be my hero.
Richard & Brigitte O'Brien
September 11, 2006
Our thoughts are with you and your whole family on this, the fifth anniversary of September 11, 2001
Dennis
December 8, 2005
Bill
Hey Billy, I guess by now you know that Uncle Bill is up there with you, I am sure it will make him smile to see you again. Have a Merry Christmas and take care of Uncle Bill
Dennis
September 12, 2004
Bill
Hey Billy, today is September 12th, 2004, another year has passed and I wanted to write and just say that I have been thinking of you.
JoLynn Green
October 16, 2003
On 9-11-03,3,412 American flags were unfurled in a Tribute Field in Odessa,Texas.Each flag represented an individual who lost his/her life in the terrorist attacks on 9-11-01.The flag I fly proudly is in honor of Capt.William O'Keefe.
Art Olivas
September 11, 2003
What wonderful memories you must have of your father watching you at track meets. I think that's beautiful. He must have been very proud of you girls. I know I would. I only hope I can become half the man your father was.
Bill (William) O'Keefe
September 11, 2003
We still remember.....may their souls rest in peace, amen.
Barbara Oldenburg
June 3, 2003
I did not know Capt. William S. O'Keefe, but everyday I wear/have worn a copper bracelet that bears his name and Division. I wanted his family to know that his influence extends well beyond September 11. I am reminded of his courage and sacrifice every day as I slip the bracelet over my right wrist.
Barbara Oldenburg 6/3/03
Andrew Robbins
September 12, 2002
Last night I went to hear the Mozart Requiem performed by my daddy. I wore a heart with your name on it. I'm sorry that your dad died. Andrew (Age 6)
MARK AND ANGIE BRUNDAGE
September 12, 2002
DEAR JACK AND FAMILY:
WE ARE VERY SAD ABOUT THE TRADGEDY THAT HAS MADE YOUR HEARTS SO SAD...WE WISH WE COULD BE THERE OR DO MORE...JUST KNOW THAT WE ARE FOREVER THINKING OF ALL OF YOU...
WITH ALL OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS THE BRUNDAGES
laura labella
August 15, 2002
thank you for being such a wonderful person. i will never forget how you and ginny opened up your home to liz. her endless sleep overs with kaitlin and your wonderful meals that you always cooked, i am so glad you were part of lizs life and that you were able to share her sweet 16 with her . you are truly missed not only by your family but by all who ever knew you. i know liz and kate will be friends forever. God bless you billy
liz labella
August 15, 2002
captin william s. o'keefe was more then my best friends father, he was a man that i admired and looked up to. he treated me as if i was his own child and i will never forget that. he was the dad i wish i had and a model human being to most. i have so many fun memories of him and there were so many jokes we used to share that when thinking of billy i can only smile. his heroism was not just expressed on 9/11 but everyday. rest in peace billy. 1<3u
Katie Murray
August 13, 2002
Billy, God is lucky to have someone like you up in heaven. You will always be remembered and never forgotten.
Kaitlin O'Keefe
August 6, 2002
I just want to thank my daddy for what he did, not just on 9-11 but everyday of his live. Every day that goes by my heart fills with pride. He was my most favorite person in the world and always will be. I Love You Daddy...you will always be my hero.
Bill (O'Keefe) O'Keefe
July 19, 2002
I only came across this website tribute to Captain William O'Keefe by mischance, and was deeply saddened to hear of my namesake's loss amongst the many other people who lost their lives in the tragedy of September 11. Although I did not know Captain O'Keefe, I wish to extend to his family my deepest sympathy and condolences at your loss. I am a serving police officer in Canberra ACT, Australia, and commenced night-shift on September 11 as the unbelievable horror was unfolding on television, and I followed the events and aftermath (like many others) in absolute disbelief. As a police officer, I can understand and relate to the dedication displayed by Captain O'Keefe, his fire brigade comrades, and the police and ambulance officers who lost their lives on that horrific day trying to save others. May their souls rest in peace.
Bill (William) O’Keefe - Canberra, Australia.
19 July 2002
Angie Campbell
May 7, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Noreen/Tom Gallagher
April 30, 2002
You and your family are in our prayers
Abby Raymond
April 27, 2002
I didn't know Captain Willaim O'Keefe like most people who have signed this guestbook, but I did wear his shirt proudly in a tribute to all the 9-11 victims. I am a dancer from Nebraska, and all the dancers were give a T-shirt with victims names on it and a candle. We did a dance called "Angels Among Us" in tribute to all the victims. The standing ovation was beautiful. My condolences go out to his family and friends.
Abby
March 18, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS HERO...CAPT.WILLIAM OKEEFE AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS...GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.PATRICK GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Jennifer O'Keefe
March 10, 2002
I want to say thank you to Bill O'Keefe for his heroic act. My father, firefighter Patrick O'Keefe, also was killed in the attacks. I was told that when my father's body was recovered Bill O'Keefe's body was found on top of him. They believe that Bill threw himself on my dad when the towers collapsed. I wanted to send my heartfelt condolences to Bill's family.
Dennis O'Keefe
January 21, 2002
Billy
I don't quite know what to say, to me Billy was a really great guy and someone I really respected. I'll always remember the golf game we played, Timmy and I against Billy and Vinny. When Billy hit that exploding golf ball on the 16th hole everyone fell down we were laughing so hard. And the Family Fishing trip, ( The Billy Blue fish shirts ). Everytime I saw Billy he was smiling. I can't even imagine what Ginny and the girls must be going through. I know Billy would be proud of the way his girls have grown up,Almost overnight it seems to me. Billy rest in peace, to everyone in our family, we've known for a long time that you were special, now America knows
karren Buttermark
January 20, 2002
BILLY YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS AND OUR THOUGHTS, MAY GOD REST YOUR SOUL.
Patricia Guli (O'Keefe)
January 19, 2002
God Bless you Billy - you are always in our thoughts and prayers....your family and friends miss you so much!!
Gail Dembin(maiden name Freeman)
January 2, 2002
Dear Jack and Family,
I was so saddened to hear about Billy. You may remember that I babysat for all of the boys--John,Bobby,Timmy and of course Billy, back in the late 50's and early 60's. My parents Terry and George Johnson lived next door to you. Please accept my condolences and know that Billy will be remembered for his bravery forever by all of the people of this country.
Sincerely'
Gail (Freeman) Dembin
Captain Tory Fatjo
December 30, 2001
I received Captain O'Keefe's mercy band as a Christmas gift. My family and I send our prayers to his family. Our thoughts are with you and our brothers and sisters of FDNY.
For all you do ........
John McCann
December 29, 2001
I work with Captain O'keefe's brother Tim. I want to express my sincere condolances to the O'Keefe family and say to Tim, I know you miss your brother and no words can soften your heartache, I just want to let you know I have enormous respect for what your brother did, he is a hero in every sense of the word. I'm sure you knew that long before the rest of the world. Rest in peace Hero Captian O'Keefe and let your spirt keep watch over your family.
God Bless
John Mccann
Rich Duke
December 18, 2001
I was given a FDNY hat bearing Captain O'Keefe's name. I wear it proudly in his honor.
Teresa Jahn
December 17, 2001
We thank Captain William for dedicating his life to saving and helping others. Such dedication comes with a very warm, caring, and loving heart. We are deeply sorry for your loss of William. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Paul T. Devine
November 13, 2001
May God shower you with His mercy. We will pray for you knowing that you have already received your eternal reward.John M. Devine, my grandfather, was a Boston firefighter.
Terry Thrasher
November 11, 2001
I have a mercy band that has Capt. William O'Keefe's name on it. I want his family to know I will be praying for you. In God's Grace, Terry
Leslie Imirie
October 20, 2001
Thank you. You and the others - the Bravest - gave new meanings to courage and honor. May you find peace in His arms. God Bless You and all the others.
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