John C. Keefe

ALBANY-John C. Keefe, 93 passed away on Sunday, November 9, 2014 at Daughters of Sarah Nursing Home. He was born on October 1, 1921 in Westbrook, Maine. John graduated from Westbrook High School before joining the US Marine Corp in 1942. He participated in action against the enemy at Roi-Namur, Kwajalein Atoll, Iwo Jima, Saipan and Tinian. John was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained on Iwo Jima. He retired in 1986 after 35 years of service with the US Postal Service. He was a passionate fan of the NY Giants, Boston Red Sox and the Notre Dame Irish.
John leaves behind his beloved wife of 65 years Sara-Gene, a daughter Ruth Ann Keefe of Scottsdale, AZ and sons James (Dale) of Guilderland, Patrick and Timothy of Ballston Lake. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Ryan Quigley of Schenectady, Brandon Keefe of Chicago and Meghan Bernstein of Rotterdam; great granddaughters Lilly Bernstein, Savannah and Avery Keefe and one sister Hazel Blanchard of Scarborough, Maine.
John was predeceased by his sister Gardinal Keefe.
A Facebook post from his grandson Brandon who is a former Marine speaks to the character of his grandfather: "Last night I lost my hero. I was fortunate enough to have a WWII Marine for my grandfather. He fought at the battle of Iwo Jima, one of the most iconic battles that the marines ever fought. He was the nicest man on the face of the planet despite the horrific things he endured during battle. The pearly gates just got another great marine. I will forever remember our special bond and the stories you told me about your time in the Marine Corps. Semper Fidelis Marine."
Services will be private.
Interment will be at Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250 in memory of John.