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205951
Cook John Joseph O'Keefe
Merch. Sea. Cook RMS Athenia
from:Helensburgh, Scotland
(d.4th Sep 1939)
My maternal Grandad John Joseph O'Keefe was the ship's cook onboard the fated Athenia, the 1st ship to be torpedoed in the 2nd World War.
His name is on the Cenotaph in our local park in Helensburgh, Hermitage Park, although my Nanny, Mary O'Keefe was never given a war widows pension. He didnt die straight away but did die eventually as a result of his injuries sustained during the attack.
He was landed at Galway and spent several months in hospital. A lot of his injuries were burns due to the stock pot pouring over him during the blasts.
He left behind his wife Mary and 6 children, Margaret, Rose, Frances (my Mum), Mary, Effie and his only son, John.
I would love to have any other information that anyone may have about the crew and survivors. Many thanks.