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FAIRFIELD, Conn. - Joan O'Keefe Van de Berghe of Fairfield died Sunday, Feb. 23. She was 81.
Van de Berghe was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., the daughter of William and Elizabeth O'Keefe, she resided in Fairfield for more than 50 years. She received her BA from the College of Mount Saint Vincent and a Masters Degree in American Studies from Fairfield University. She taught middle school in New York City and Bridgeport prior to raising her family. She became a docent in Medieval Art at the Cloisters. She was a volunteer and board member of the Fairfield Christmas Tree Festival, board member and volunteer at the Mercy Learning in Bridgeport and also volunteered at Bridgeport Hospital.
Van de Berghe was a member of the Brooklawn Country Club, Pequot Yacht Club and the Fairfield Beach Club.
Van de Berghe is survived by her children, Dr. Elizabeth V. Brennan (Dr. Michael Brennan) of Fairfield and Richard L. Van de Berghe, Jr. (Claire) of Fairfield; four grandchildren; sister, Denise Linden; and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; and husband, Richard L. Van de Berghe, MD.
Calling hours are Friday, Feb. 28 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Spear-Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 1 at St. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield. Interment will be private.
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