Obituary of Caroline Elizabeth Mary O'Keefe

Caroline E. O’Keefe, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on December 2, 2024. Born on September 20, 1937, Albany, NY, to William Van Apeldoorn and Gladys Maclutsky, Caroline was a long-time resident of Menands. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Denis O’Keefe, with whom she shared many decades of love and companionship.

Caroline dedicated numerous years to working as a waitress at several establishments, including the Latham ‘76 Diner, where she became "YaYa". Her passions included working, dancing, traveling, going to the movies, and camping at Thompson's Lake in East Berne, NY. Above all, she treasured spending time with her grandchildren. Her love for cats was evident in her generous donations of canned food to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society. 

For the last six years, Caroline resided at the Van Rensselaer Manor in Troy, NY, where she deeply appreciated the care from the nurses, aides, and volunteers, as well as the friendships she formed with fellow residents. Known for her vibrant personality, she delighted visitors by sharing candy and telling jokes. She wanted to share a sentiment to the manor claiming, "I'll be back." A devoted Miami Dolphins fan, Caroline was also an avid collector of gnomes, musical figurines, magnets, Hess trucks, and all things Minnie Mouse.

She survived by her two sons, William “Louie," Charles "Chucky" Van Vorst and his wife Cheryl, as well as her beloved grandchildren: Brandon Michael, Joseph Harold, Michael Thomas, Anne Elizabeth, Charles Vadym, and great-granddaughter Mariah Jade.

In honor of Caroline’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 9, at 10:30 AM at Corpus Christi Church in Clifton Park. Visitation hour will be from 9:45 am – 10:30 prior to the Mass. 

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society at 3 Oakland Ave, Menands, NY 12204.