John Cuthbert O'Keefe Jr.

In Memory of

John Cuthbert O’Keefe

November 23, 1940 - December 29, 2018

Obituary

John passed away suddenly in the early morning on December 29th in his home. John was born November 23rd in San Diego, California, to John and Rose O’Keefe.

John lived his entire life in the San Diego County area. He graduated from Sweetwater High School and attended San Diego Community College. He was man with a variety of occupations starting as an Apple Picker (didn’t last very long), Nurseryman, Mailman, Milkman and ended his career with Santa Fe and Amtrak as a Carman. John was always a proud Union Member.

John was an enthusiastic sports fan of Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish, Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics and the San Diego Chargers. He loved reading newspapers, political books, mystery novels, as well as a movie buff of all genres. He enjoyed listening to old radio shows, Bruce Springsteen, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Fats Domino, Neil Diamond, and Irish music. John was a wonderful story and joke teller. He was very proud of his Irish heritage. John, always a proud Democrat, was passionate about politics and the need for fairness and equality for all. His love of animals helped save many strays who became loving members of the O’Keefe family. He was never happier than when a dog or cat was by his side. His love extended to birds, rabbits, hamsters and ducks.

John was a people person, he was outgoing, friendly and gregarious. He loved making people laugh and never missed an opportunity to tell a joke. John volunteered with Meals on Wheels and his favorite part was getting to know the people on his route. He loved his Sweetwater High School friends, attended all reunions and get-togethers, and truly earned his title of Best Personality which he won his Senior Year. After he retired, John remained friends with his railroad co-workers and looked forward to their monthly breakfasts.

Survived by his wife, Merleen of 57 years, four daughters (Carolyn Donnell, Colleen Lindsey, Julie O’Keefe-Hucke, Tara Razwick-Diaz) and his son Shawn O’Keefe. He was a proud grandfather of 10 grandchildren (John, Brian, Erik, Kenny, Matt, Megan, Harry, Kristen, Dylan, Sean, and two great-grandchildren, Aidan and Erin) He is also so survived by his sister Rose Anne Bachmann and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

John had a larger than life personality, he was kind, funny, smart and will be forever missed by his family and friends. We were all blessed to have him in our lives.

O’Keefe motto Fonti et fideli nihil difficile (To the Brave and Faithful, nothing is impossible)

In lieu of flowers if you prefer, please donate in John’s honor to the ASPCA .

Celebration of Life to be held immediately following the memorial at:

Nan Couts Cottage

5027 Memorial Dr.

La Mesa. CA 91942