John F. O'Keefe

1931 - 2022

John F. "Jack" O'Keefe, 90, of West Rutland, has finally arrived at his sell by date February 1, 2022.

He was born on 4 September 1931, the son of John F. O'Keefe and Bertha (Lebert) O'Keefe in North Adams, MA.

Spending the first 20 plus years of his adult life as a career service veteran, he actively participated in the Korean War and the Vietnam conflict. He was awarded many decorations, most prominent Presidential Unit Citation Air Medal, Bronze Star and Purple Heart. The highlight was having served with two Medal of Honor recipients Major Bruce Crandall, his C.O., and his Wingman Maj. Ed Freeman.

After the service he was employed as a mechanic at Shortle Motors for 5 years, Russ Smith for 5 years and 15 years with General Electric from which he retired.

Jack was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose, 1122, American Legion Post 31, VFW Post 6471, and GE Retirees.

He enjoyed being married. His current wife Judy A. (Brown) O'Keefe took a line from Abba (Take a Chance on Me), it worked. They spent 8 wonderful years enjoying seashore, travel, plays at Weston, and much dancing. His first wife, Mary A. (Unsworth) O'Keefe kept him busy for 57 years. It was a wonderful life.

Jack is survived by his wife Judy, sons Michael and Patrick O'Keefe, grandchildren Aaron O'Keefe and Courtney O'Keefe, stepchildren Chet and Vicki Brown, Beverly and Rich Baker, and Anita Brown.

In closing a very special Thank You to his neighbors in Florence and West Rutland.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 6 pm, on Monday, February 7, at the Barnard Funeral Home in Pittsford. Due to Covid concerns, masks are required.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am on Tuesday, February 8 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Pittsford.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Rutland County Parent Child Center, 16 Chaplin Avenue, Rutland, VT.