Linda Lamkin

Linda O'Keefe Lamkin, wife of longtime Cape Girardeau resident Walter R. Lamkin, passed away peacefully at age 48 Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, surrounded by her family at her home in St. Louis.

She had waged an inspirational fight against cancer and did so with a rare grace, unflagging optimism, a beautiful smile and sparkling Irish eyes for nearly three years. It was a battle that she ultimately won.

Besides her husband of 22 years, Mrs. Lamkin is survived by three daughters, Killian Hein Lamkin, Kathrine Bishop Lamkin and Gibson O'Keefe Lamkin; and a son, Walter Russell Lamkin Jr., all of the home. She is also survived by her parents, James L. and Norma O'Keefe of St. Louis; a sister, Kelly O. Heintzelman (Phillip); two brothers, James L. O'Keefe III and Brian B. O'Keefe (Claudine); many other family members together with innumerable special friends.

A funeral Mass for Mrs. Lamkin will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at the Church of the Immacolata in St. Louis, followed by a reception in celebration of her extraordinary life at the University Club, 1034 S. Brentwood.

Kriegshauser West Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mrs. Lamkin to Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School, 101 N. Warson, St. Louis, Mo., 63124, or to The Wellness community (for cancer patients and caregivers) at 1058 Old Des Peres Road, Des Peres, Mo., 63131.