Charles M. McKeough

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that the McKeough family and Villanova University announce the passing of a beloved member of the Villanova University academic community, Professor Charles McKeough ‘61 COE, P ‘19.

After more than 50 years of dedicated service at Villanova University, Professor McKeough passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and loved ones on the evening of Monday, January 1, 2024 after an eight and a half year battle with cancer.

His enduring commitment to education, unwavering passion for the electrical and computer engineering fields, and compassionate mentorship have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of countless students and colleagues at Villanova and beyond.

After graduating from Villanova in 1961, Professor McKeough began his tenure at Villanova the same year and quickly became a respected pillar of the University’s School of Engineering. He would go on to receive a master’s degree at Washington University in Saint Louis in 1968. His enthusiasm for teaching was infectious, inspiring generations of students to delve into the intricacies of electrical engineering. As a lifetime member of IEEE and a scholar, he contributed significantly to the academic landscape, leaving a lasting legacy of knowledge and intellectual curiosity in the engineering field.

Beyond the lecture halls and academic pursuits, Professor McKeough was known for his kindness, warmth, and approachability. He was not merely an educator but a mentor who took a genuine interest in the well-being and success of his students. Many fondly remember his guidance, encouragement, and the countless hours spent in his office, discussing not only course material but life's challenges and triumphs.

His life - outside of his students - was dedicated to his family: His wife of 32 years, Marylou, who passed away unexpectedly in November of 2023, and his beloved son Andrew. He truly adored his family and dedicated the past 26 years of his life to raising his son with Marylou. His dedication to family extended to his love and commitment to his seven brothers and sisters to whom he was a role model.

Professor McKeough also left a deep impression on all those who interacted with him. Family, friends, and friends of friends will remember his strength and inspiration. Even when life wasn’t treating him well, he would uplift those around him through his positive attitude and infectious smile as he emanated calm, joy and happiness to his surroundings.

As we mourn the loss of Professor Charles McKeough, let us also celebrate the remarkable life he led and the positive impact he had on so many. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the contributions he made to Villanova University and beyond. Professor McKeough’s family asks that you “always smile” while thinking of Professor McKeough and - in lieu of flowers and gifts - donate any amount in his memory to the Carley’s Angels Foundation. More information on the foundation can be found at www.carleysangels.ca/charles-mckeough.

Professor McKeough is predeceased in death by his loving wife of 32 years, Marylou (née Mankowski), in November of 2023, his younger sister Mary M. McKeough, father John J. McKeough, Jr., mother Margaret M. McKeough, younger brother US Army Specialist James G. McKeough, and nephew John J. McKeough IV. Professor McKeough is survived by his son, Andrew K. McKeough, sisters Nora Anne McKeough, Margaret Breighner (Russell), Joan Finney (William), Maureen Finger (David), brother John J. McKeough III (Joyce), eight nieces, nephews, and fifteen great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Family, friends, relatives, Villanova faculty, students, clergy, neighbors, and parishioners are invited to attend a Mass of Christian burial on Saturday, January 20th, 2024 at 10:30 AM at Saint Thomas of Villanova Church on the campus of Villanova University in Villanova, Pennsylvania. A viewing will be held prior to Mass starting at 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Saint Thomas of Villanova. An additional viewing will be held the evening prior to the funeral - Friday, January 19th, 2024 - from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Alleva Funeral Home, Inc. Lancaster Ave. in Paoli, Pennsylvania.