Sandra Lee O''Keefe

Sandra Lee O'KEEFE Was born on March 3, 1943 in Seattle, Washington. She passed on October 26, 2007 at the age of 64. She reveled in her marriage, and role as mother and grandmother. Born to Maude E. Markey (Nelson) and Frank N. Markey in Seattle, Washington. She grew up as part of an extended family with three brothers and many relatives always in attendance. Growing up she enlivened the many family gatherings with wit, music, and general high jinks. She met Richard D. O'Keefe in 1962 and they were married in 1964 subsequent to her graduation from the University of Washington. It was clear from the beginning of this marriage that they were inseparable and became ever closer over their 43 years together. After many years accompanying her husband in his USAF career, they returned permanently to the Seattle area in 1982. Sandra's life was centered on her husband, three sons, and extended family. Sandra was known as a loving and caring daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and friend. All who came in contact with her knew immediately that they were the center of her attention and once a friend she would never allow the relationship fade. Intellectually she was fascinated by the study of language. Her passion was the perfection of her knowledge of English. She was fluent in Spanish and mastered French, Italian and Latin. She was convinced that language was a window through which she could understand other cultures. She retired from the McGraw-Hill Company in 1998 as an Office Manager. She is survived by her loving husband, Dennis O'Keefe and three sons, John O'Keefe of Seattle, Dr. Robin O'Keefe (Angie) of Huntington, WV, Patrick O'Keefe (Tina) of Tappan, NY. Additionally, grandsons, Danny and Jack and granddaughter, Catie; brothers, Frank Markey of Lynnwood and Will Markey of Auburn. Extended family and friends were always foremost in her overall concerns. Her family wishes to extend thanks and appreciation to all the staff at Overlake Hospital and the Springs of Pacific Regents for their extraordinary care of Sandra during the last phases of a very difficult time in her life. On November 16, 2007, 11:00 a.m. there will be a Memorial Service at the Washington Cathedral, 12300 Woodinville-Redmond Road NE, Redmond, WA to celebrate Sandra's life. Donations can be directed to: Sound Mental Health, 1600 E Olive Street, Seattle, WA 98122 Arrangements entrusted to Sunset Hills Funeral Home, Bellevue, WA. Please visit Sandra's memorial website @ www.mem.com.