McHenry VFW Commander Ben Keefe dies at age 50
McHenry VFW Commander Ben Keefe dies at age 50, McHenry VFW Commander Ben Keefe dies at 50, McHenry VFW Commander Ben Keefe Dies at 50: A Tremendous Loss for the Community
Ben keefe Obituary
Ben Keefe, the beloved commander of McHenry VFW Post 4600, passed away unexpectedly at 50. Known for launching the Queen of Hearts game, which raised over $1 million for veterans’ programs, Keefe was a pivotal figure in the community.
His passing is a significant loss, with tributes pouring in from friends, colleagues, and local officials. Plans for a public memorial service are underway to honor his remarkable contributions and lasting impact.
He leaves behind his wife, Kim, and three daughters: Nora, Riley, and Molly.
Started Queen of Hearts game, ran weekly drawings: ‘Huge loss’
A Sudden Departure
McHenry VFW Commander Ben Keefe passed away early Monday morning at the age of 50, marking a profound loss for the local community. Keefe, who had served as the commander of McHenry VFW Post 4600 for the past three years, was a cornerstone of the VFW and instrumental in numerous community initiatives.
Remembering Ben Keefe
A Leader and Innovator
Ben Keefe was well-known for his role in establishing the Queen of Hearts game, a popular charitable event that has significantly impacted the VFW and the broader McHenry County community. Under his leadership, the game not only allowed the VFW to enhance its facilities but also contributed over $1 million to veterans’ programs in the area. Keefe’s commitment extended to managing the weekly drawings, which were streamed live, further engaging the community.
A Guiding Force
Keefe’s influence went beyond his fundraising achievements. According to Mike Kinnerk, senior vice commander of the VFW, Keefe played a crucial role in guiding the organization through the pandemic. He managed to keep the bar and kitchen operational while attracting new members, becoming the face of the McHenry VFW over the past five years.
Community Reactions
The news of Keefe’s death was met with deep sorrow from friends, colleagues, and the community. Chad Miller, commander at the American Legion Post 491, observed a moment of silence in Keefe’s honor and spoke of his contributions. “At 50 years old, God decided it was time for him to come home. He was an awesome man who did a lot of good for the VFW,” Miller said.
McHenry Mayor Wayne Jett, who was close friends with Keefe, expressed his grief and noted that Keefe had called him just the night before to express his appreciation and friendship. The mayor is working on setting up a GoFundMe campaign and a bank account to support Keefe’s family during this difficult time.
Keefe’s Legacy
Keefe’s impact on the VFW and the community will be remembered through the continued success of the Queen of Hearts game, which will proceed as planned in his honor. The VFW is also planning a public memorial service to celebrate his life and contributions.
Keefe, a U.S. Army veteran who served with the 10th Mountain Division and was deployed in Somalia, leaves behind his wife Kim and three daughters, Nora, Riley, and Molly. A private family funeral will be held at a later date.
Ben Keefe’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the positive changes he helped bring about in the community.
Ben keefe Funeral Details
A private family funeral is planned for a later date. The VFW is also organizing a public memorial service to honor Keefe’s legacy and his many contributions to the community.
Ben keefe Cause of death
Ben Keefe’s death was due to a sudden medical event, the specifics of which have not been publicly detailed.
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McHenry VFW Commander Ben Keefe dies at age 50
FAQs About Ben Keefe
Q: What was Ben Keefe’s date of death?
A: Ben Keefe passed away early Monday morning.
Q: What was the cause of Ben Keefe’s death?
A: Ben Keefe’s death was due to a sudden medical event, the specifics of which have not been publicly detailed.
Q: How old was Ben Keefe at the time of his death?
A: Ben Keefe was 50 years old at the time of his passing.
Q: What notable roles did Ben Keefe hold during his life?
A: Ben Keefe served as the commander of McHenry VFW Post 4600 for three years and was instrumental in launching the Queen of Hearts game, which significantly benefited veterans’ programs and the VFW facility.
Q: Did Ben Keefe have any military service?
A: Yes, Ben Keefe was a U.S. Army veteran who served with the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, from August 1992 to December 1994, including a deployment to Somalia.
Q: What are the details of Ben Keefe’s memorial services?
A: A private family funeral will be held at a later date. A public memorial service at the VFW is also being planned to celebrate his life and contributions to the community.
Q: Who are Ben Keefe’s surviving family members?
A: Ben Keefe is survived by his wife, Kim, and their three daughters: Nora, Riley, and Molly.
Q: What was the cause of Ben Keefe’s death?
A: Ben Keefe passed away unexpectedly due to a sudden medical event early Monday morning.
Q: How old was Ben Keefe when he died?
A: Ben Keefe was 50 years old at the time of his death.
Q: What notable contributions did Ben Keefe make to the McHenry VFW?
A: Ben Keefe is best known for initiating the Queen of Hearts game, which raised over $1 million for veterans’ programs and funded significant upgrades to the VFW facilities.
Q: Who will be taking over Ben Keefe’s responsibilities at the VFW?
A: Mike Kinnerk, the senior vice commander, will take over as the post commander.
Q: Are there any memorial services planned for Ben Keefe?
A: A private family funeral is set for a later date. The VFW is also planning a public memorial service to honor his contributions and legacy.
Q: Who does Ben Keefe leave behind?
A: Ben Keefe is survived by his wife, Kim, and his three daughters, Nora, Riley, and Molly.