Daniel Joseph "Don" O'Keeffe

Daniel Joseph O'Keeffe, known in childhood as Donal and since college as Don, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 90 on March 3, 2026, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. He leaves behind a life defined by the love and laughter he brought into every room, the yachts he designed, and his deep devotion to family and faith.

Don was born on June 15, 1935, in the small coastal village of Schull in West Cork, Ireland, the second youngest of nine children. Growing up in what the family called "heaven on earth," he was the character of the house-mischievous, funny, and adored by his five brothers and three sisters. Even in a busy household, Don's cheerfulness and gentleness set him apart.

While other children had bicycles, Don and his siblings had boats, and as a child, Don was constantly making things with his hands, especially boats. He studied architecture in Dublin before moving to the United States in 1965, where he enjoyed a long and illustrious career as an internationally renowned yacht designer.

Don met the love of his life, Marianne, in Dublin in 1963, and they were married in 1967 in New Haven, Connecticut. They shared wit, curiosity, and a deep tenderness for over 63 years.

In 1978, Don and Marianne moved to New Orleans, where Don worked for Halter Marine. In 1988, they moved to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where Don became Chief Designer at the renowned Burger Boat Company, designing custom yachts such as Windrush and LAD, admired for their craftsmanship, aesthetics, and innovation.

His designs earned him wide respect, but it was his warmth and humor that people cherished most. A master storyteller, Don had a gift for leaving people laughing and feeling lighter in his presence. A devout Catholic, Don was gentle and kind. He carried Ireland with him through the stories he loved to tell.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Ellen; his siblings Mary (Cullinan), Ellen, Anne, Maurice, Paddy, and John; and his adopted cousin, Phil Bailey.

Don will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, Marianne; his devoted son, James; his daughter-in-law, Deanna; his cherished grandchildren, Fiona and Elias; his surviving brothers, Jim and Frank; and many extended family members and friends.

A private family funeral service will be held and Don will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery, Manitowoc. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and friends. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.

The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care provided by Chris Kopus and the Aurora Hospice team, especially Tricia and Megan.