Francis Michael Keane
...Rescue 1, Boston Fire Dept; 86
TEWKSBURY - Francis Michael “Mike” Keane, 86, a decorated retired Boston firefighter who’sphotograph in a Boston paper won a Pulitzer Prize in photojournalism, died Friday morning,March 1, at the Center for Optimum Care in Wakefield. He was the husband of Helen G.(Hughes) Keane who died in 1987.
He was born in Boston, December 11, 1915, a son of the late Edward and Helen (Moriarty)Keane and was raised in Dorchester. He lived in Wakefield and Tewksbury the greater part of hislife.
During WWII, he served in the U.S. Navy SeaBee’s in the Northern Pacific.
He began his career as a Boston Firefighter in November 1945. He was assigned to EngineCompanies 35 and 7 briefly, but spent the majority of his career assigned to Rescue 1. During histenure as firefighter, he received numerous commendations and medals for bravery. His imagewas captured on film during the Hotel Vendome conflagration and building collapse, published,and would be recognized by the news service with the award of a Pulitzer Prize to the journalist. Mike retired on February 1, 1978.
In addition to the Firefighters Union, he was a member of the Boston Fire Department “DandyDrillers” squad.
He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews, and was brother of the late Evelyn Coakley andEdward Keane Jr.
His funeral was held Friday, Mar. 8, in St. William’s Church. Interment was in Tewksbury Cemetey.