James D. Keefe

James D. Keefe, age 96, of Storm Lake, Iowa formerly of Early, Iowa died Wednesday, November 9, 2016 at Methodist Manor Retirement Community in Storm Lake. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, November 14, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Early. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with full military rites. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements. James Dale Keefe was born October 2, 1920 in Sioux City, Iowa, the son of James and Edith (Douglas) Keefe. James was the only child, and was raised in Early on a farm. He graduated from Early High School. Shortly after graduation, James farmed with his father before he was drafted into the service during World War II. He was sent to the Air Corp basic training. He volunteered for Aerial Gunnery training and was sent to armament school. James was a tail gunner in the B-17 bomber. Overall, he did 29 missions over Germany and was awarded 3 air medals and a Distinguished Flying Cross. During the war, he met Ruth Keefe. He bid on her picnic basket at a benefit and won her heart for only 18 cents. They were married in 1944. After the war, James raised four children with Ruth while farming in Early, where he lived for most of his life. Once the children were grown, the couple moved from the farm in 1989, to a house in Early where they lived for 17 years. He and Ruth enjoyed that home very much. James enjoyed pheasant hunting in the fall for many years. He also loved to read, play cards, and get in his car and take road trips. James has driven over most of the United States, more than likely. James has always been a support to his wife and children. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Those left to cherish his memory include his children: James F. (Kathy) Keefe of Lake View, Iowa; Patricia Kent of Denver, Colorado; Kathleen Keefe of Storm Lake, Iowa; grandchildren: Aaron (Aimee) Beazley, Christopher Beazley, Dawn (Dave) Powell, Bridie (Hans) Frey, Andrew (Michele) Kent, Ryan (Michelle) Keefe; ten great grandchildren: Tyler, Courtney, Aubree, Adam, Brianna, Austin, Aiden, Halley, Jackson, and Alyssa; extended family and friends. James was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Ruth; and daughter, Margaret “Peggy” Beazley.

James D. Keefe

October 2, 1920 - November 9, 2016