William (Bill) Joseph O’Keefe, 80, of Vernon, CT, formerly Tolland, CT passed away November 27, 2019 peacefully at home with his loving wife and soulmate of 52 years, Yolande, by his side. He was born to parents, William Joseph O’Keefe and Kathleen Fleming O’Keefe, on August 9, 1939. As Bill was known to say, “pre-Hitler but still a good year.” Bill was known and endeared for his sense of humor, ability to make others laugh, and to tell a good story. He was a family man through and through, always putting his family first.
Bill graduated from Arch Bishop Williams High School in Braintree, MA and attended college at St. Gregory’s, Shawnee Oklahoma. He worked the majority of his career with United Aircraft, International Division and Hamilton Standard. Bill took particularly great pride in his role as Project Manager for the B2 Bomber.
In addition to his wife, Yolande, Bill is survived by his children Michael and his wife Laura O’Keefe of Wethersfield, CT, Kimberly O’Keefe, of West Warwick, RI, Shannon Caminiti of Tolland, CT, and his most beloved grandchildren, Danielle and Ryan Caminiti. Bill lost his beloved Son-In-Law Jamie Caminiti, Spring 2017. In addition, he leaves his sisters Kay Doherty, of Braintree Massachusetts and Mary Vincent, of Canton, CT as well as many nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his brothers Kevin O'Keefe and Adrian O'Keefe. Relatives and friends may join the family at Tolland Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Merrow Rd, Tolland (Rt. 195) on Saturday, November 30, 2019 from 10:30-12:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 1:00 pm at St. Mathew’s Church, 111 Tolland Green Ext, Tolland, CT 06084, burial will follow at South Cemetery, Tolland. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s name may be made to Community Renewal Team/ Meals on Wheels Vernon Chapter, 555 Windsor St, Hartford, CT 06120. For online condolences please visit pietrasfuneralhome.com