John “Jack” J. Keefe

LEOMINSTER- John “Jack” J. Keefe, Sr., 86, of Leominster, died Thursday, May 18, at Marlborough Hospital, surrounded by family, holding his loving wife’s hand.

Jack was born April 19, 1937, in Worcester, son of Hugh Dean and Ruth (Keefe) Marceau and was raised by his late grandparents, James T. and May Julia (Willey) Keefe. He served in the National Guard. Jack was a hard worker. His first job was at Pete’s Coffee Shop and also worked for Leominster Taxi. He and his wife were co-owners of Boston Fruit Company. He worked as a route supervisor for Wachusett Potato Chip Company for 40 years before retiring. Always keeping busy, he continued to work after his retirement for Acme Transport and DJ’s Auto Repair. He also volunteered at Sholan Farms, Little League, Pop Warner, Knights of Columbus Bingo and was a Boy Scout Troop leader. He was a member of the Leominster Lodge of Elks, the Knights of Columbus and the Montachusett Twirlers.

Jack and his wife Nancy met at the First National Grocery and have been married for 61 years. In addition to the three children they lovingly raised, they were honorary parents to many kids over the years. The family enjoyed yearly trips to the Cape, camping and fishing.

He leaves his wife of 61 years, Nancy (Wood) Keefe; three children, Sharon Kenward and husband, David of Leominster, John J. Keefe, Jr. and wife, Elesandra of Fitchburg and Kathleen Keefe and partner, Eveline Anderson of Fitchburg; six grandchildren, Matthew Keefe and his fiancée, Marisa and her son, Aaron, Kasandra Hernandez and partner David Savage, Randi Keefe and partner, Brittni Hussong and husband, Christopher, Jessica Keefe and Melanie DeJesus and partner, Paul Wood and their upcoming child; a well loved sister in law, Lillian Clay; many nieces, nephews, cousins, honorary children and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his grandson, Joshua Keefe, and two brothers, Charles Keefe and James Marceau and aunt, Doris Keefe.

The family would like to thank the staff at Landmark Healthcare for the exceptional care they took of Jack especially, his special nurse from Better Home Health whom he loved as a granddaughter Jordin Lee Bushnell.

Calling hours are Thursday, May 25, from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. and Friday, May 26 from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. at Richardson Funeral Home, 106 West St., Leominster. 

The funeral Mass will be Friday, May 26, at 11:00 A.M. at St., Leo’s Church, 128 Main St., Leominster. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are welcomed to assist the family. 

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