Joseph Daniel Keleher Jr.

Joseph Keleher, undefeated quarterback of the 1958-59 Freeport Red Devils, has passed away at the age of 81. Joseph is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Beatrice; his sister Mary and half-sister Joanne; and sons Joseph and James, both teachers. He was blessed with 2 wonderful daughter-in-laws, Linda and Alexandria, 6 loving grandchildren, Krystie, Joseph, Megan, Shane, Emily and Julia, a fantastic family, and many great friends.

Joe overcame many adversities in his life, from winning 30 consecutive games leading the Red Devils in spite of being so nearsighted the receivers had to wave their arms dramatically for him to see them, to surviving a brain abscess at the age of 40, which rendered his left arm completely paralyzed and left leg partially paralyzed. After his paralysis, Joseph returned to his career as a top-selling agent at Prudential, and even continued to play golf regularly, using just one arm. When asked what his golf handicap was, he would joke, “Left arm, left leg”. Joseph’s humor, generosity, positive attitude, and fighting spirit never faded.

A memorial service and celebration of Joe’s life is being held on April 29 in Deer Park from 3-7, please contact sons Joe or Jim for details. Joseph’s ashes will be interred at a private ceremony at the National Cemetery as a Veteran of the US Army. In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a GoFundMe to establish the Joseph D. Keleher Memorial Scholarship to benefit his Alma Mater, Freeport High.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Boyd-CaratozzoloFuneralHome.com for the Keleher family.