James Kevin Keefe

James Kevin Keefe, age 75, Clermont, passed away May 6, 2016. He was born September 14, 1940 in Cleveland, Ohio, son of Catherine Walsh & Edward Keefe. On August 19, 1961 he was united in marriage to Joan Perry. He retired from Ryan Insurance Group. A twenty-year resident of Clermont, Florida from Cape Cod, Massachusetts; he was a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Clermont, and Christ the King in Mashpee.

Surviving are his wife, Joan; children Michael (Denise) Keefe of Rockford, Illinois; Tim (Barbara) Keefe of Sanford, Florida; Dan (Erin) Keefe of Walpole, Massachusetts; and Susan (Scott) Weiner of Mansfield, Massachusetts; nine grandchildren; and siblings Sheila Keefe of Sterling Heights, Michigan; Catherine Traeger of Elgin, Illinois; Mary Kushman of Avon Lake, Ohio, and Steve Keefe of Waite Hill, Ohio. His brothers, Dr. John Keefe of Mayfield Heights, Ohio and E. Michael Keefe of Harwich, MA, preceded him in death. He was loved by many nieces and nephews, whom he spent time with whenever the opportunity presented.

Called “Jim” by his family, colleagues, and many friends, he was successful in business. After serving in the Army National Guard, Jim started work as banker in Cleveland, Ohio. After a brief career as a stock broker, Jim joined the Ryan Insurance Group, now part of Aon, and moved to Sudbury, Massachusetts. In New England, he rose to Divisional Manager, and won numerous awards for his accomplishments over a 23-year career.
Jim met his wife, Joan, at a roller-skating rink during high school, and they enjoyed 55 years of marriage. He was a good and supportive father to four children, with whom he was very active. They will miss him dearly. Throughout his life, Jim was no stranger to hard work, and he instilled his strong work ethic in his children. An avid and enthusiastic do-it-yourselfer, Jim and his kids enjoyed tackling projects together, including painting, decks, patios, kitchens, tree forts, greenhouses, and even chicken coops! Jim’s capable hands worked hard in the kitchen as well, producing many delicious meals. Jim commandeered grills for cookouts wherever he went, and was masterful at Thanksgiving and Christmas with a turkey (even if it weighed 39 pounds!).

Jim was proud of his Irish heritage, and true-to-form, was quick to make friends. As they say, “he knew how to work a room.” From acquaintances to life-long friends, Jim is remembered with a smile and a favorite story. Jim is especially remembered by his family and siblings and of course, his nine well-loved grandchildren: Shane, Ashley, Emily, Aidan, Molly, Matthew, Liam, Meagan, and Justin. He was blessed to enjoy many happy times and experiences with them – his participation on rides at Disney and Universal was legendary! As his grandchildren grew older, Jim attended many of their academic and athletic events, and he delighted in their achievements.

Jim had an adventurous streak, traveling extensively throughout the United States. He also traveled to Australia, Canada, Ireland, and the Caribbean. Whether it was whitewater rafting, boating, snowmobiling, canoeing, hiking, swimming, or walking on the beach, Jim enjoyed the outdoors.
In retirement, Jim and Joan split their time between Cape Cod and Florida, where they resided at King’s Ridge, in Clermont. Throughout his life, and particularly in retirement, Jim enjoyed golf. He was introduced to the game as a caddie in high school and golf grew into a true passion. A stylish dresser on the course, Jim was involved in golfing men’s groups and participated regularly in golfing tournaments and fundraisers.
Jim lived a full and active life. He loved and was loved. His legacy lives on in his children, grandchildren, and in our happy memories.

Friends are invited to a gathering at the funeral home on Wednesday, May 11, 2016 from 5-8 PM. The traditional Catholic Wake Service will be held at 7:00 PM. Further services will be held in Massachusetts.


In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to the Mike Conley Hospice House.

A funeral mass is planned for 11:00 am on Tuesday, May 24th at the Parish of Christ the King in Mashpee, MA. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:00 am prior to the Mass. Immediately following the Mass, light refreshments will be served. A family-only interment will held at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Falmouth, MA.


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