Patrick Francis Keeley, 81 years old, of Idaho Falls ID passed peacefully on January 12 at his home, in the arms of his family and under the care of Hospice of Eastern Idaho.

Born April 23, 1943, in Columbus OH to Laurence and Georgia Keeley, he grew up in Silver Spring MD, attending Archbishop Carroll High School and the University of Maryland before joining the United States Navy in 1964. He served 2 tours in Vietnam receiving the Vietnam Service Medal, the Air Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Purple Heart. After the service he joined the Naval Reserve and served from 1969 until 1988, joining with a friend, Rear Admiral Jack Mumaw, to usher in the P-3 anti-submarine aircraft to the VP-68 squadron at PAX River. Having learned to fly in the Navy, he embraced a career as an airline pilot, retiring in 2002 as a 747 captain and flight instructor with United Airlines.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Keeley (née Aslin), whom he married in 1970 as well as by two sons: Daniel and Michael (Tracy); two granddaughters: Ellie and Emma, and his sister Sharon.

Aside from his love of family and country, he enjoyed flying, playing bridge (achieving Life Master) volunteering as an AARP tax volunteer, and having a numerous and widespread group of friends.

A memorial service is planned for the Spring with interment at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to Saint Vincent de Paul or Hospice of Eastern Idaho.  Cremation is under the care of Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls. Condolences may be sent online at www.coltrinmortuary.com