James F. O'Keefe

O'Keefe James F., age 83, of Minneapolis, on March 9, after a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Preceded in death by his wife, Angela (nee McPhee); his son, J. Patrick, and his parents, James Patrick and Mary Agnes (nee Finn); his brothers, Rev. John J. O'Keefe, C.S.P. and Gerald F. O'Keefe. He is survived by his children, Mary Jane and Michael (Carol); grandchildren, Patrick Sean, Megan Kathleen, and Timothy Colin O'Keefe; his sister, Sr. Mary Sheila O'Keefe, C.S.C., Notre Dame, IN; sister-in-law, Loretta O'Keefe; and many nieces and nephews. Descended from Irish immigrant families who were among the earliest parishioners of St. Anthony of Padua Church, his grandparents and parents were among the pioneer families establishing St. Lawrence Church, first as a mission of St. Anthony, and then as a parish. A graduate of DeLaSalle High School, he earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Minnesota. Jim retired in 1983, after 29 years with State Services for the Blind, the last 16 as Assistant Statewide Director. His devotion to his church and his Irish heritage was a common thread throughout his life that led him full circle back to Catholic Eldercare at St. Anthony. The family is very grateful to the nurses, personal aides and staff of Eldercare and to Father Kivel, for their loving care and concern. Funeral Mass 10 AM Thursday, March 14 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church & Newman Center, 1201 5th St. SE, Mpls. Visitation 4-7 PM Wednesday at Rainville Brothers Chapel, 2301 Central Ave NE, Mpls, and 1 hr. prior to service at church. Rosary 7 PM Wednesday. Memorials are suggested to Catholic Eldercare or DeLaSalle High School. Rainville Brothers 612-789-3250

Published on March 12, 2002