Thomas F. Keegan
Entered into eternal life February 18, 2022.
The world lost a very special man when Tom died, unexpectedly, on February 18, 2022. His beloved wife, children, family and friends are mourning his loss but will always remember how lucky they were to have had him in their lives.
Tom was born in suburban Philadelphia and lived in Havertown, PA. He attended St. Denis School where he was an altar boy. He briefly attended West Catholic High School in Philadelphia. His love of playing basketball with his friends in the school gym after hours did not please the Archdiocese. Tom transferred to Haverford High School and played on the football and basketball teams.
One of his favorite memories was “hanging out” with his friends at Dinger’s luncheonette. He remained friends with the owners, Dinger and Doris, throughout his life.
He served in the Army and often commented on how this experience was so important in helping him to focus on his life goals. After his honorable discharge, Tom studied at Newberry College in South Carolina. He played
on the basketball team all four years and he was the cocaptain of his team. During his college summers, Tom was a roofer and became a lifelong friend of the owner, “Deal.” He graduated with a BA in history.
He began his Liberty Mutual career in the Claims Department but soon moved to Business Sales in Bala
Cynwyd. His interest in people, his conversational skills and his drive to succeed made him a member of the Liberty Leaders Club.
Tom married the love of his life, Judy, in an ecumenical ceremony with a priest and a minister. They moved around the East Coast before another promotion brought them to San Francisco, with a home in Novato.
No one ever had a more thoughtful, kind and generous friend. Tom always looked for something positive in each
person he met. He kept in contact with everyone from elementary schoolmates to adult friends. Tom was a good listener and enjoyed all conversations, often, injecting them with his Irish wit and humor. Part of his humor was reflected in his gifts to family and friends. He would spend extra time to find the perfect silly or unusual gift for someone.
An animal lover, he had many pets during his life. Favorites were his dogs. Many people will remember seeing him at Hill School with his Newfoundland, Hannah.
A natural athlete, Tom enjoyed jogging (neighbors will remember him this way), an occasional pickup basketball game, and golfing with friends. He played golf at many courses: Merion West (referred to as evening golf), Pebble Beach, Harbourtown, and Indian Valley.
Touring the wine country and discovering new wines to share with family and friends was a favorite hobby.
In Novato, Tom coached boys and girls basketball at the park and rec, CYO, and high school levels. He was a member of St. Anthony of Padua and his faith brought him comfort during his health challenges.
Tom always said his family was the most important part of his life. He cherished the years of raising his children, Derek and Kendra, and was so proud of them as adults.
From teaching them to drive (well below legal age) to encouraging them to seek careers that they would love.
He always looked forward to traveling in the USA and in Europe with his family. Typically, with his interest in everyone, he befriended many along the way.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Andrew and his sister, Nancy. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy; his beloved children, Derek and Kendra; his brother, Bill; his nephews, Andrew, Jim, and Tom and his niece, Trish.
Tom will be missed by all, family and friends, and will be forever in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to your favorite charity in Tom’s name.
A Celebration of Life will be held April 26, 2022, from 12:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Marin Country Club, 500 Country
Club Drive, Novato, CA 94949.