Maureen O’Keefe
Maureen Patricia O’Keefe (O’Rourke), a beloved wife, mother, “Gaga”(grandmother), sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Vallejo, California, on July 16, 2025, at the age of 72, with her husband by her side, after facing the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease in her final years.
Born on November 16, 1952, in San Francisco, California, Maureen was the eldest of four sisters and a natural leader from a young age. She attended Crestmoor High School in San Bruno. Afterward, while working at the United States Postal Service, she met her husband of 46 years, John O’Keefe. Shortly after getting married, they moved to Vallejo, where they built their life and raised their family.
Maureen had a love for learning and leadership. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from JFK University and a graduate degree in Human Resources from Golden Gate University. She held several advanced certifications and had a long and accomplished career in Human Resources and executive leadership, spanning several industries including financial services and the wine industry. In addition to her corporate work, she taught graduate-level courses as an adjunct professor at both Brandman University and Golden Gate University, mentoring students with the same passion and energy she brought to everything she did.
Throughout their 46-year marriage, Maureen and John shared a love of travel and adventure. Whether skiing in Lake Tahoe, windsurfing in the San Francisco Bay, biking through wine country, fly fishing for salmon in Alaska, or riding Harleys beneath the redwoods, they filled their years together with wonder, joy, and unforgettable memories. Sailing was another cherished pastime for them; they were proud members of the Vallejo Yacht Club and spent many happy days aboard their sailboat, Asylum, with friends and family.
Creative by nature, Maureen’s children recall that she always had a project in motion. Over the years, her many hobbies included stained glass making, sewing, needlepoint, and a wide range of crafts. She sewed elaborate Halloween costumes for her children and grandchildren—costumes that were treasured and passed down. In addition, her handmade Christmas decorations were often the centerpiece of family holidays and many Christmas celebrations hosted in their home. When not crafting, she found time to support her children’s interests and hobbies, whether leading a Girl Scout troop or coaching pee-wee soccer.
In her later years, Maureen became an avid knitter, ensuring that her own children and grandchildren, as well as the children and grandchildren of those she held dear, all received a blanket or two lovingly knitted by her. She was an avid gardener, earning her certification as a Master Gardener and spending countless happy hours cultivating beauty in her yard.
She enjoyed time with her three younger sisters, especially during their annual ‘Sister Weekends,’ which were filled with shared stories, laughter, spa days, and meals out together. These gatherings became a meaningful tradition that kept them connected through the years.
Maureen will be remembered for her creative spirit and confident presence. Outgoing and thoughtful, she brought an engaging energy into every space she entered. Her legacy lives on in the strength, joy, and passion she inspired in those who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her loving husband, John O’Keefe; her three children, Erin (Steven), Cristin (Ben), and Breandan (Clara); her eight grandchildren, Kingston, Koda, Hana, Kruz, Little Ben, Anthony, Desiree, and Adrean; her three sisters, Colleen, Linda, and Teri, along with many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
Maureen’s services will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Duggan’s Serra Mortuary, 500 Westlake Ave., Daly City, California. A graveside service will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 1500 Mission Rd. Colma, California.