Joseph Kirk O'Keefe

Joseph Kirk O’Keefe, 84, of Nacogdoches died January 7, 2018, in Nacogdoches, Texas. Joseph Kirk, commonly known as Kirk, was born in Paxton, Illinois, to parents Richard Joseph and Ruth Louise (Shinn) O’Keefe on September 30, 1933. Kirk married Mary Helen Waters, October 4, 1958, and they had 2 children: Richard Kirk and Catherine Elizabeth.

Kirk earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering and Master’s Degree of Science Management at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He was an Aircraft maintenance officer 509th BW 15th AF, SAC, USAF Walker AFB, NM, completing USAFR commitment with the rank of Captain. Early in his career, he taught Applied Mathematics at University of Santa Clara, CA. Later, he worked as an aero dynamist and test engineer with North American Aviation, McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, Lockheed Missiles and Space Co., Inc., and AVCO Research & Advanced Development.

He became Program Manager at Lockheed Space Systems and then served as Director of Tactical Systems, ARGO Systems and UTL The Boeing Company. He retired in Nacogdoches in 1994. His achievements included invention of innovative techniques for nearfield verification of microwave auto tracking and very low bit error rate verification, development of a remote tactical powered aircraft, design and initial operation of several intelligence satellites; methods that yielded over 70% win of government contracts.

After retirement, he consulted for Tactical and Space Systems, wrote, and remained active in clubs. Kirk published many technical and management articles in various professional journals as well as hunting/conservation magazines. He published two books; Program Management and Get Up and Go! He was a member of the Foundation for North American Wild Sheep, Safari Club International, and National Rifle Association. He had been an Officer and Board Member in the San Francisco Bay Area and Pineywoods Chapters of Safari Club International. He was also an avid big game hunter, handyman & apprentice fisherman. Kirk earned recognition in Who's Who in USA and Who's Who in Science and Engineering.

Mr. O’Keefe was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and daughter. He is survived by his son, Rick O’Keefe MD; and grandchild, Maeve Elizabeth.

Kirk has been a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Nacogdoches for many years. A Witness to the Resurrection service will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church with Pastor Steve Newton presiding on Saturday, January 13, 2018, at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Online condolences may be offered at www.casonmonk-metcalf.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, located at 5400 North Street in Nacogdoches.