Community rallies in support of Furbush children after the sudden loss of officer O’ Keefe

STOUTGHTON, Mass. — Boston police officer John O’Keefe’s family said in a statement Thursday that he was a loving and kind man, who took on the responsibility to raise his beloved niece and nephew and build a home and a life around their needs, after his sister and brother-in-law passed away.

O’Keefe’s body was found during the blizzard Saturday morning outside a Canton home belonging to another Boston Police Officer. O’Keefe had skull fractures, swollen eyes, arm abrasions, and signs of hypothermia, according to the prosecutor.

O’Keefe’s family said Kayley and Patrick Furbush lost both of their parents at a young age and now are grieving the loss of their beloved uncle and recent guardian.

“John was not only a dedicated police officer, he was an exemplary guardian, son, brother, uncle and friend and we were so fortunate to have him as a part of our lives,” said O’Keefe’s family. “People talk about someone who would give you the shirt off their back but that was truly who John was, and it is heartbreaking for us to suddenly be talking about him in the past tense.”

Friends and family of O’Keefe started a GoFundMe for the Furbush kids to help support their futures. “We considered many options but have decided to set up this fund for what meant the most to him and it is the kids,” Paul O’Keefe said.

The family along with Boston Police said they appreciate the outpouring of support but ask for privacy during this time as they mourn their loss.

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