Richard D. O'Keefe

Richard D. O’Keefe, born June 24, 1950, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, at Sunrise Senior Living (Memory Care) where he resided for the past 2 years.

Raised with strong family values, Richard graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in the Class of 1968. Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology in 1974 from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). He furthered his education by attending Logan School of Chiropractic, graduating with the Class of 1979.

Richard’s professional career was marked by ambition and versatility. As a chiropractor, he brought care and insight to countless individuals, embodying his lifelong fascination with health and the human body. Richard also embodied the entrepreneurial spirit, contributing to a range of business ventures including Self Reliance Co/Solar Power Catalog and American Auto Brokers. His innovative mindset led him to approach each endeavor with determination, resourcefulness, and integrity.

A passionate and relentless learner, Richard was known for his wide-ranging intellectual interests. He delved into books on health, nature, biology, religion, the readings of Edgar Cayce, philosophy, quantum physics, and dark matter. Friends and family will remember him as someone always eager for meaningful conversation, someone who, as a friend once remarked, “Rick doesn’t talk in sentences, he talks in paragraphs.”

Richard’s hobbies reflected his endless curiosity and deep connection to the world around him. He enjoyed fishing, bird watching, raising tropical fish, and reverse engineering projects. He was well rounded in music from listening to Bach, The Beatles, Janis Joplin music played a pivotal role in his life which he then instilled into his children. He took great pride in cheering on his children’s sports teams, and proudly recounting his daughters’ achievements. He brought enthusiasm and encouragement to all his pursuits.

Above all, Richard treasured his role as a family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Janice O’Keefe; three daughters, Kristina (Allen) Lodes, Kimberly (Ryan) Siebers, and Kelsey (Christopher) Campbell; and six cherished grandchildren, Emily Lodes, Kaylee Lodes, Madelyn Siebers, Graham Siebers, Amaya Campbell, and Zuri Campbell. He is also survived by his devoted sister, Mary Jean Coats, and a host of extended family members and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his mother, Jeanette O’Keefe-Bausch; his father, Glennon O’Keefe; and his brothers, Gerald O’Keefe and Patrick O’Keefe.

Some of Richard’s fondest memories were made with his family on summer vacations to visit his sister Mary Jean and her family in Wisconsin, on Round Lake, enjoying boating, fishing, and time spent listening to his brother-in-law, Tim Coats, play guitar and sing around the campfire. These moments captured his love for togetherness and the outdoors.

He also deeply valued the camaraderie of his friends. Whether reminiscing about days at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, connecting with sports and travel friends, or engaging anyone willing in a profound discussion, Richard built lasting relationships that enriched many lives. His reputation as a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and loyal friend stands as a testament to his character.

Richard was most proud of his three daughters, enthusiastically sharing in their achievements and nurturing their growth. He cherished every opportunity to attend their school activities and sporting events, and the tradition of “Saturday Dad-urdays” at Burger King held a special place in his heart. Coaching his children’s softball and soccer teams brought him immeasurable joy.

To honor Richard’s life, visitation will be held on July 2, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home in St. Peters, located at 837 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, MO 63376. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 PM at the same location.

Richard D. O’Keefe will be remembered for his boundless intellect, his entrepreneurial drive, his devotion to family, and the warmth he extended to all who knew him. He leaves a meaningful legacy and will be deeply missed.

In Memory of Richard D. O'Keefe, please consider making a donation in support of Parkinson's Research to the Michael J. Fox Foundation of Parkinson's Research