T
homas P. O’Keefe, M.D.
March 10, 1935 – January 24, 2020
After a blessed life of 84 years, 10 months, Thomas Patrick died on January 24, 2020. He was a faith-filled, devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. The twinkle in his eyes and sense of humor never waned even with the diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia. He truly loved to laugh and have others laugh with him. He was proud of being a graduate of South High School and of continuing his education at Creighton University and Creighton School of Medicine. He remained a life-long fan and supporter of the CU basketball program.
Thomas dedicated his life as an Internist-Cardiologist, practicing in Norfolk, NE for 35 years. Upon relocating to Omaha in 2007, he was restless to utilize his medical skills and found part time employment at the MEPS, doing physicals on military inductees. He finally officially retired shortly before his 80th birthday. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Francis and Marjorie O’ Keefe; his sister, Kathy Matulevicz; in-law parents, John and Agnes Orcutt; sister-in-law, Jean Follrath. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 1/2 years, Joan Orcutt O’Keefe, 4 children and 15 grandchildren: daughter, Theresa (Myles) Gart and Hannah, Ethan, Sophie, Isaac; daughter, Colleen (Michael) Thakor and son Thomas; son, Joseph and children, McKenna, Callahan, Brennan, Delaney, Brogan, Gabriel, Cecilia; son, Daniel (Shannon) and Siobhan, Lachlan, Finn; his sister, Judy Kelly; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Many thanks to Fr. Craig Loecker, Fr. Rob Scheiblhofer, Deacon Randy Landenberger and all the EMHC’s for their many visits to Tom while at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home, where he received excellent care the last year of his life.
Please send Memorials and Mass requests to St. Leo Catholic Church or Mount Michael Abbey, Elkhorn, NE.
Visitation Wednesday, January 29, from 5-7PM at West Center Chapel with ROSARY at 7p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial: Thursday, January 30, 10 a.m. at St. Leo Catholic Church.
Interment: Calvary Cemetery.
5 Comments
As a nurse at Lutheran Hospital in Norfolk, I have many fond memories of Dr. O’Keefe. Yes, he did have a twinkle in his eye, and he was also a skilled clinician.. My sympathies to Joan and the family.
Our sincere sympathy to Joseph and family over the death of your father and Grandfather. Be assured of our prayers for all. Unfortunately we will be out of town however, will have a Mass offered for the repose of the soul of Dr. O’Keefe. May his soul Rest In Peace and may the family be comforted by Our Dear Blessed Mother who understands your loss and grief. Thank God for our wonderful sacramentals provided thru Holy Mother Church which assists us on this earthly journey to Heaven. Steve and Lois
So very sorry for the loss of this fine gentleman. I wish we would have had the chance to know him. From the beautiful obituary, you could just tell he was a fun-loving and faithful man. May his memory and legacy live on in each member of your family and may he rest in peace. Much love and prayers for your family.
So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He was an outstanding doctor, and there are many of his patients in the Norfolk area who had their lives extended because of his care. I am personally glad to have had a long friendship with Tom and Joan over the years.
Dearest Jonie and Family,
I’m deeply saddened to hear of your loss! Dr O’Keefe was a committed and faithful physician in Norfolk and a wonderful neighbor to my In-Laws for many years. Prayers, comfort and much love to you All ❣️🙏💖Sandy Thornton Aletraris
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