Mark Henry Keegan, aged 71, passed away on December 1st, 2024. He was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, great uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, brother and friend to all those who knew him and will be deeply missed. Mark was born on July 20th, 1953 and grew up in the Massapequa Park area, the cherished son of Joseph and Joan. He and Margaret (Peggy) Paulus wed on August 12th, 1973, and were happily married for 51 years, living in East Meadow, NY until Mark’s untimely passing. Above all else, Mark was a devoted father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his children, Kerri and Shawn, and grandchildren, Fiona and Theo. His jokes and games the source of great laughter and happiness for them, always bringing a smile to their faces. He was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter what challenges they faced. Professionally, Mark worked sanitation for the town of Hempstead for many years, as well as a supervisor at Nassau County’s Department of Public Works, which he retired from after many successful years. Mark also ran a successful landscaping business for many years, his skills in the field having been honed as a young man doing landscaping for his grandparents.

In his free time, Mark enjoyed many hobbies and other interests over the years. He loved gardening, always excited to have the greenest lawn in the neighborhood. He took great joy in cooking and with every meal he made he happily noted, “I think this is my best yet!” He also spent time rebuilding classic cars and riding motorcycles in his younger years. He was always eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with others. He was an active member of his community, his selfless charity work carried out as a 22 year member of the Mineola Pacific Lodge for The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of which he will be truly missed by all his brothers. Mark also loved taking road trips (usually with Peggy) and enjoying the quality time spent. Whether he was headed to Pennsylvania, Florida, Long Island’s East End or even the nearby casino, he always insisted on being behind the wheel and getting on the road at a ridiculously early hour. Those lucky enough to have been on a road trip with Mark can attest to the permanent happy memories they created (and also to having to watch their quarters if it was a casino trip).

Wherever he was, Mark was instantly the mayor of that place. His undeniable charm and infectious personality allowed him to converse and make friends with just about anyone. Everyone in the neighborhood knew him and they all had a story (or ten) about the kindness he showed or the laughter he brought. There was just nobody like Mark and his presence will be endlessly missed by all whose lives he touched. Mark is survived by his loving wife, Peggy, his children, Kerri (and her husband Ian) and Shawn (and his wife Melissa), and his grandchildren, Fiona and Theo. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him and his infectious laughter and contagious smile will live on in perpetuity. And who knows…he may just have one more practical joke waiting for everyone to be revealed just when it’s least expected.