Thomas P. O’Keeffe, 70, of Kent, WA, passed away on Saturday, June 19, 2021 in his second battle with cancer.
Tom was born on December 15, 1950, in Portland, OR, to Patrick and Virginia (Thoennes) O’Keeffe. He received his Bachelor of Science in Bacteriology and Public Health from Washington State University in 1974 and went on to complete a Master of Science in Public Health at the University of Washington in 1981. He worked as an Industrial Hygienist for the Boeing Company for 44 years, where he was recognized as a valuable leader. He married Ann E. (Bright) O’Keeffe on August 30, 1980, and adopted his eldest daughter, Amy C. Scroggs-O’Keeffe on September 7, 1983.
He was a devoted husband and father. He was a role model to his family and his community, demonstrating selflessness and generosity with his time, resources, and knowledge. Tom was incredibly hard-working and reliable. He had an adventurous heart that enjoyed mountaineering, photography, woodworking, welding, and gardening. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America for 10 years, serving as a committee member and treasurer. He had a strong faith and was an active member of St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic church for many years.
Tom is survived by his wife, Ann of Kent, WA; his chil- dren, Amy, Nani (Jon), Andy (Jamie), Patrick, Katie (Jonathan), Michael, Jeremy, Virginia, Starla, Clara, and Alex; 11 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren; his mother, Virginia; siblings, Terri, Jim (Cindy), Jean (Lonnie), Neil (Debbie), Nancy, and Eileen (Mitch). Tom was preceded in death by his Father, Patrick, and his brother-in-law and best friend, Bill.
A funeral mass and reception will be held on Monday, July 19, 2021, at 10:00 am at St. Stephen’s the Martyr church, 13055 SE 192nd St, Renton, WA. A private burial for family will follow at Hillcrest Burial Park in Kent, WA.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Arthritis Foundation in Tom’s honor.
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