John Jacob Keefer

Retired U.S. Army Infantry Major John Jake Keefer, 86, passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

Born March 16, 1938 in Wilkes-Barre he was a son of the late Donald S. and Esther Arvilla Bogart Keefer.

Jake graduated from Hanover High School in 1955, excelling at football. He continued his education at Pennsylvania Military College and King's College and later graduated from the University of Omaha.

An Army Aviator, Major Keefer retired after more than twenty years of service to our country. Highly decorated during his service, he was awarded the Army Air Medal with 19 Oak Leaf Clusters, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with V Device, Silver Star, Bronze Star with V Device, Bronze Star with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Distinguished Flying Cross, Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with Gold Star, Vietnamese Gallantry Cross with Palm, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Parachutist Badge, and Senior Army Aviator Badge.

Retiring from military service, Jake returned to the Wyoming Valley, where he became involved in the operation of Keefer's Army & Navy. His father founded the family-owned business in 1949 in Lower Askam, which relocated to Wyoming Avenue in Kingston in 1972.

Jake was a longtime member of the Church of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception, serving as a lector, acolyte, and eucharistic minister through the years.

His wife, Anna Marie Uzdilla Keefer, died on July 25, 2017. His daughters Karen Stewart and Wendy Harmon, and brother Donald Keefer also preceded him in death.

Surviving are sons John of Columbus, Georgia and Donald of Shavertown; sister Patricia Keefer of Drums; step-son Dr. James Hurley; step-daughter Lisa Batka; and very special adopted family of Josephina, Stefanie, and Hanna. Other family and friends will miss his presence.

Celebration of Jake's Life begins on Sunday, October 27, 2024, with visitation from 2 to 5 PM at McLaughlin's, 142 South Washington Street in Wilkes-Barre. It continues there on Monday, October 28, 2024 with gathering at 10 AM followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 AM in the Church of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception.

Donations to your favored veteran assistance charity are preferred and will honor Jake's memory.

Share memories and condolences with Jake's family at mjmclaughlin.com