Patrick O'Keefe

Patrick J. O'Keefe, 71, was called home suddenly to the Lord on December 21, 2012. His death was unexpected and merciful. He was the precious husband of Jan O'Keefe and the beloved father of Joseph and Julie O'Keefe; brother of Dennis O'Keefe (Chris); brother-in-law of Budd Wolter (June), Bev Hohnstein (Jerry), Sharon Hinson (Lanny), Nancy Jutzronka (Jim), Charles Wolter (Judy), James Wolter (Mary) and Sue Veres (Randy). Paddy was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on June 22, l941. A self-made man, he worked his way through college receiving a BBA and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin. He was an energetic entrepreneur and creative self starter in all areas of his life. He became a CPA and worked for Arthur Anderson as an auditor. On July 21, 1962, he married his high school sweetheart. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year with a trip to Cabo San Lucas. He truly cherished his wife and daily demonstrated that with his acts of kindness and affection. He was a gourmet cook and shared his talents freely with his friends and loved ones. He made the occasions of life more beautiful with his elaborate, delightful dinners and beautifully crafted menus. He did volunteer work in rest homes for years calling bingo and showing a personal interest in the residents. Paddy had a wonderful spirit of adventure. Traveling was one his greatest delights, especially France. He was a noted Francophile and enjoyed the romance of Paris. Wandering in Mexico and the Southwest called to his spirit as well, where much to his delight he terrified anyone brave enough to go four-wheeling in his Jeep. He loved adventuring outdoors and was an avid hiker, cyclist, scuba diver, archer, hunter and fisherman. He was an enthusiastic gardener and hosted heirloom tomato taste-offs all summer on the back patio. His unique sense of humor compelled him to play tricks on others while maintaining complete innocence. He was a renaissance man and did everything himself. In his younger years, he played the piano and he had his eye on the guitar to play next. He was a member of the Elks, and volunteered in many other endeavors. A passionate man, he truly lived life to the fullest. Every morning, he would wake up and read his bible. He will be greatly missed by those who love him. He is now residing in heaven in the presence of our Holy God. A memorial will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at at 11:00 a.m. at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Chico. Donations may be made to the Butte Humane Society, 2586 Fair Street, Chico, CA, 95928 to honor his love of dogs.