Robert Jack O'Keefe

September 11, 1921 - May 3, 2019

Robert Jack O’Keefe passed away peacefully in Gardnervile, Nevada on May 3rd, 2019 @ 5:45 PM at the age of 97. Robert is survived by his wife, Naomi June O’Keefe of Gardnerville, NV, his son William Arthur O’Keefe, of Duluth, Minnesota, grandsons Brian, Douglas, and Ian O’Keefe, and great grandchildren Alyson, Robert, Coen, and Emmett O’Keefe. He is preceded in death by his daughter Susan Lynn O’Keefe and his brother Arthur Edward O’Keefe. Robert was born on September 11, 1921 in California to Martin and Dorothy O’Keefe. He graduated from the University of California Berkeley and entered the military October 1, 1943. He served as Commander flying B-17’s and as B-29 flight instructor. He received the American Theatre Ribbon and the Victory Medal October 25, 1945. He was discharged December 28, 1945. He amassed an impressive career in engineering and nuclear contract work with Boeing, Aerojet, and Physics International. He also contributed to early artificial heart design and pulmonary volume ventilator design. For the previous 35 years he and his wife June have enjoyed life sailing and relaxing on their quiet ranchette overlooking the Carson Valley in Nevada. A private memorial service is to be held at Eastside Memorial Park, Minden, Nevada on June 7. Pastor John Scheuermann of Trinity Lutheran Church will preside.