Search by Name

Search by Name

Cornelius "Neil" O'Keefe

FUNERAL HOME

Elmwood Chapel & Crematory - Cedar Lake

9931 Lincoln Plaza Way

Cedar Lake, Indiana

Cornelius O'Keefe Obituary

O'Keefe, Cornelius "Neil"

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Cornelius "Neil" O'Keefe on August 19, 2025 at the age of 86. Neil will be remembered for his quick wit, kind smile, and the unwavering love he showed his family every day. He had a gift for conversation and could strike up a chat with anyone he met, but more importantly he was an exceptional listener, someone you could turn to for advice, comfort, or encouragement. His love of travel carried him around the world – not bad for a skinny Irish kid from South Deering. Along the way he brought laughter, connection, and friendship to all who knew him.

Neil was loved by Donna, his wife of 64 years; their children Kelly (O'Keefe) Zupan, Kathleen (O'Keefe) Robin, Karen (O'Keefe) Farrer and her husband David, and Kevin O'Keefe and his wife Tina, as well as 10 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, all whom brought him immense pride and joy.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 10:00 am DIRECTLY at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church 11000 W. 133rd Ave. Cedar Lake, Indiana 46303. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Elmwood Funeral Chapel and Crematory. For more information 219-374-9300 or www.elmwoodchapel.com

Sign Guest Book at legacy.suntimes.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Aug. 21, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Cornelius O'Keefe

Sponsored by Chicago Sun-Times.

Not sure what to say?





0 Entries

Be the first to post a memory or condolences.

Make a Donation
in Cornelius O'Keefe's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Cornelius O'Keefe

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Elmwood Chapel & Crematory - Cedar Lake

9931 Lincoln Plaza Way, Cedar Lake, IN 46303

How to support Cornelius's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Cornelius O'Keefe's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more