Dominic College community, family mourns the loss of former teacher Graham O’Keefe

A former Dominic College teacher is being remembered as “enriching” and “much-valued” after tragically passing away at the weekend. READ THE TRIBUTES

Graham O'Keefe. Pictures: Facebook.

TRIBUTES are flowing for a former “legendary”, “enriching” and “much-valued” Dominic College teacher who tragically died at the weekend.

Graham O’Keefe, 77, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Saturday, after a brief period in palliative care.

Mr O’Keefe was a teacher at Glenorchy’s Dominic College for over 30 years. His four children, Leesa, Glen, Michael and Peter attended the school.

Mr O'Keefe during his teaching years at Dominic College. Pictures: Facebook.

Daughter Leesa wrote on Facebook: “Our dear dad peacefully took his last breath at around 6.10pm last night, in the presence of his family and surrounded by so much love. We will miss him forever but know he is sleeping in peace. We love you dad xxx,” she wrote.

He is survived by his seven children and 11 grandchildren.

A keen golfer, a tribute posted in this week’s Mercury obituaries read: “Played an adventurous 18 holes and now rests on the 19th. We love you dad. Go the Pies!”

The Dominic College community is mourning the passing of Mr O’Keefe, with tributes flooding social media.

“The Principal, staff, students and Old Scholars are deeply saddened by the death of former teacher and parent, Mr Graham O’Keefe,” a post read.

His funeral will be held on Friday at New Town. Pictures: Facebook.

“Loving sympathy to his family and friends.”

Kerri Stalker wrote: “Such a wonder teacher. He was always so kind and caring. RIP.”

Cathy Parr said: “Happy memories of Mr O’Keefe at Holy Name. Coaching our softball team, our school camps, athletics and teaching maths. A fine man. R.I.P.”

Megan Reynolds added: “Love to the whole family. I am very appreciative that Graham was part of my education. He was fair, supportive and knowledgeable. Feeling for the family’s loss.”

Former Dominic College student Theresa Greene said her life was “enriched” by Mr O’Keefe’s teachings, saying he had an “unwavering dedication to education.”

“What a trying job with all us girls … in the Holy Name days! He handled it beautifully . and with great respect for us all,” she said.

Graham with his son Glen. Pictures: Facebook.

“His unwavering dedication to our education both formal and sporting was phenomenal.”

“His patience must surely have been tested on SO many occasions,

yet he showed resilience, tolerance, and a sense of humour. and nothing less than respect to each of us.

That respect was returned to him by every generation lucky enough to have been taught, coached, or mentored by our Mr O’Keeffe. We are saddened by his passing, but enriched by his teachings.”

Mr O’Keefe’s funeral service will be held at 12.30pm on Friday at Graham’s Funerals at New Town.

His family extend their thanks for the support and messages during their time of mourning.