More detail on this person: Francis Arthur
("Frank") Keeley, Jr. died on February 8, 2014 at
the age of 78, from complications brought on by
Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Frank was
born on September 2, 1935, the first son of
Francis A. Keeley, Sr. and Mildred Keeley of
Philadelphia, PA. Frank served in the United
States Army for over 21 years, enlisting
immediately after high school. He started his
career as General H.W.O. Kinnard's radio operator
in the Airborne but quickly rose through the ranks
and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4,
aeronautical engineer and helicopter pilot. In
1963, while stationed in Germany, he met his wife,
Geraldine Judith Hunt, and began a romance that
lasted 50 years. Frank's Army career included two
tours of duty in Vietnam, a Bronze Star, the Air
Medal and a host of other citations and
commendations. After retiring from the Army, Frank
eventually settled his family down in Petaluma in
1973. Frank loved to sing. His clear and deep tone
became the mainstay of every hymn at St. James
Catholic Church. Frank was also a well-known
fixture at Petaluma Swim Club competitions;
cheering his sons on with his signature booming
voice. Frank was quick to smile and laugh; and
always took the time to share a new joke with
others. He will be remembered as a devoted
husband, loving father and faithful friend. Frank
is survived by his wife, Geraldine (Jerry) Keeley;
his three sons, Frank (Claire), Mike (Kristen) and
Jay; and his grandchildren, Jack and Avery, all
living in Northern California. Friends and family
are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on
Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at 1:00 p .m. at St.
James Catholic Church, 125 Sonoma Mountain
Parkway, Petaluma, CA 94954. A Visitation will be
held on Tuesday, February 18, 2014 from 6:00 p.m
to 8:00 p.m. at PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY
& CREMATORY, 850 Keokuk Street, Petaluma, CA
94952 with a Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m..
Published Online in the Press Democrat from Feb.
17 to Feb. 18, 2014
This information was last updated 05/18/2016
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