Victor F. Keefe, 89, of Victoria died peacefully on January 12, 2024, with his loving wife by his side. He was born in Victoria, TX, as the seventh of seven children. He is preceded in death by his parents John Michael Keefe and Margaret Ida Warburton Keefe and his four sisters and 2 brothers.
Victor is survived by his wife of 31 years, Sharon Wildes Keefe, and their eight children Joe Keefe (Judy), Sharon Keefe Martinez (Rick), John Keefe (Genevieve), Margaret Keefe Schaar (Bobby), Jim Wildes (Annie), Bill Wildes, Eve Wildes Richey (Dave), and David Wildes (Kimberly), 22 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Victor graduated from St. Joseph High School, Victoria, TX in 1952. He furthered his education at St Mary’s University in San Antonio, earning his BS degree in 1956, and later earned his Master’s Degree in Political Science. Following graduation, Victor answered the call of duty and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army, dedicating 30 years to serving his country and leaving a legacy of courage. His assignments took him around the world, including Germany, Ethiopia, Iran, and two tours in Vietnam.
Victor retired as a Lt. Colonel and continued his career at Raytheon (Texas Instruments), where he served as their HR Director for over 25 years.
A lifelong Catholic, Victor was a member of the Knights of Columbus for 71 years. He became a first degree Knight on May 1, 1953, and was installed as a fourth degree Knight on June 18, 2011. He was actively involved in his parish, Holy Family Catholic Church.
Victor's legacy is one of unconditional love for his wife and children, selfless service to others and his country, unwavering devotion to God, and a deep love for his extended family and many cherished friends. His impact will be felt for generations to come, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.
A family-only visitation will be held Friday, January 19 from 4:00 to 5:00 PM at Rosewood Funeral Home 3304 Mockingbird Lane, Victoria, TX 77904.
Visitation for family and friends will be Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 9:00 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 704 Mallette Dr, Victoria, TX. A rosary will be recited at 9:20 with eulogies to follow. The Funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 AM with Bishop Brendan Cahill presiding. Burial will immediately follow at Catholic Cemetery #3, 1900 N Vine St in Victoria. Reception at Holy Family Church Activity Center following the burial.
Pallbearers are Joe Keefe, John Keefe, Jim Wildes, Bill Wildes, David Wildes and Justin Surber. Honorary pallbearers are Bobby Schaar, Dave Richey and Rick Martinez.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial donations in Victor’s honor may be made to: Holy Family Catholic Church Building Fund, 704 Mallette Dr. Victoria, TX 77904, St. Joseph High School, 110 E Red River Victoria, TX 77901, Nazareth Academy Catholic School, 206 W Convent, Victoria, TX 77901, or Hospice of South Texas, 605 E Locust Ave, Victoria, TX 77901.
We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with his family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
