Frederick J. Keefe of Reading passed on Saturday, September 19, 2009 at E.N. Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford. He was 84 years of age.
Born in Andover, Fred was the beloved son of the late Dorothy (McDavitt) and James Keefe. He was a warm and caring son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed.
Fred served proudly on the USS McCord, DD-534 during World War II. The McCord served with several Task Forces during the march to Japan, including TF 38 and TF 58.4 which supported attacks on the Phillippines, Taiwan, Okinawa and Iwo Jima. He spoke of being a "hot shell guy" on 5/38 gun mounts. Upon retirement, Fred volunteered at the Charlestown Navy Yard maintaining the USS Cassin Young, DD-793, keeping the memory of the "Tin Can Sailors" alive.
Fred was a Police Officer for the Town of Reading for over 20 years. He loved boating and playing golf. Fred also loved to work in his yard and travel.
Fred was the beloved husband of Eleanor (Smith) Keefe. He was the devoted father of Susan Pearsons and her husband Randy of Plastow, NH, Nancy Booth and her husband Jamie of W. Hyannisport and Jimmy Keefe and his wife Priscilla of Reading. Fred was the cherished grandfather of Jennifer, Bradd and Angela. Greatgrandfather of Brookelynn. He was the dear brother of Beverly Webb, Jacqueline Kiley both of Reading and the late Irene Eckert and Charles Keefe. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share remembrances with the family on Wednesday from 4-8 pm in the funeral home. Parking attendants will be available. A Funeral Service celebrating Frederick’s life will be held on Thursday at 11am in the Chapel of the Doherty – Barile Family Funeral Home, 11 Linden St. READING. Interment with Military Honors will be held at Forest Glen Cemetery, Reading.
Special thanks to Priscilla for the wonderful care that she gave to our Dad during his illness.
In lieu of flowers please honor Frederick with donations to American Lung Association, 460 Totten Pond Road, Suite 400, Waltham, MA 02451.