Joe Keefe

1962 - 2016

This is the story of the house that Joe built: Joseph Patrick Keefe, 54, is now on the next leg of his epic journey. He passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 11, 2016 encircled by the love of his wife, children, and his dear friends. Joe was born in Grand Forks, ND to parents David (Dave) J. Keefe and Elizabeth (Betty) Keefe on Saturday, February 10, 1962. From that date forward Joe forged his own path through life. Joe and his family relocated to Westminster, CO in 1967 and then resettled in Fort Morgan in 1976 where Joe attended and later graduated from Fort Morgan High School in 1980. Joe married his life's partner Angela (Angie) Shannon on February 26, 1983 and he quickly set out to build a lasting legacy for his family. Joe had a natural curiosity and penchant for all things mechanical. He began his early work life as a hand in the oil field then went on to work with Schmeeckle Brothers Construction and finally to Colorado Energy where through intelligence, hard work, and sheer determination he advanced steadily through the ranks to ultimately become plant manager. Joe was a member of several Fort Morgan community organizations including the Fort Morgan Elks Lodge, Relay For Life, and the Morgan County Game and Fish Conservation Club. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to spend time fishing, boating, hunting, and camping. His talents were many. He was a lifelong learner. He was a wine maker, woodworker, welder, builder, and he never shied away from attempting something new. If he didn't know how to do something when he started it, he was an expert by the time he finished. Always the competitor and sportsman, Joe was a true athlete. He was a golfer, runner, swimmer, and cyclist - competing in many events over the years including marathons, half-marathons, and triathlons. Joe was preceded in death by his grandparents, Edward and Kathleen Keefe; his sister-in-law, Robin Gonzalez; nephew, Josh Sewald; and step-father, Ray Anderson. He leaves behind a loving family including his wife, Angie; and sons, Ryan (Jill) and Taylor (Abby) and grandchildren Shayla, Brodie, Corbin, and Noah. He is survived by his parents, Dave Keefe and Betty Anderson; and his sisters, Ann Marie Jones and Kathleen Meyer (Don) and their children. Joe had a direct and positive impact on the lives of so many friends and peers over his lifetime, and he will be sorely missed by all of us. This is the story of the house that Joe built. It is a good house built on the strongest of foundations. His house will endure for those of us left behind to tend it. His family and friends will forever keep him close in heart and mind. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the End Brain Cancer Chris Elliott Fund or Hospice of the Plains, 100 Broadway #1A, Sterling, CO 80751. A Celebration of Joe's life will take place Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at 10:30AM at the United Methodist Church in Fort Morgan.