An Illustrated History of the State of Washington, by Rev. H.K. Hines, D.D., 
The Lewis Publishing Co., Chicago, IL., 1893, pages 443-444

	JOHN O'KEANE, County Commissioner of Clarke county, was born in county
Limerick, Ireland,, June 10, 1824, a son of James and Catherine O'Keane, natives
also of that country. The parents emigrated to America in 1847, locating in La
Salle county, Illinois, where the father engaged in farming.
	John O'Keane, the second of ten children, followed various occupations,
principally public work, until October 1, 1862, when he became assistant clerk
in the United States Quartermaster's Department, in Vancouver. He also had about
eighteen months' experience in mining in Idaho, was bookkeeper for the firm of
Crawford & Co. about five years. Served as County Auditor from 1871 to 1875, two
years later was appointed Indian Agent at Tulalip, this State, until 1882; after
his return to Vancouver served as Deputy Auditor two years, and in 1885 was
appointed Receiver of the United States Land Office in this city, remaining
there four years. In 1889 Mr. O'Keane embarked in the real-estate business in
this city, and in 1890 was appointed Notary Public. He buys, sells and handles
real estate on commission, and represents several of the best fire-insurance
companies. In November, 1892, he was elected County Commissioner of Clarke
county. Mr. O'Keane is jointly interested with Hon. J.A. Munday in farm and
fruit land in this county, and he also owns city property.
	In Vancouver, February 10, 1867, our subject was united in marriage with
Miss Mary Cunningham, a lady of Irish birth. They have one son, James J., who
assists his father in the transaction of the office business. In political
matters, Mr. O'Keane is a stanch and steadfast Democrat, and takes an active
interest in political issues. The family are consistent members of the Catholic
Church. Our subject is a worthy and conscientious citizen, and one who has the
confidence and respect of the entire community.

Submitted to the WA. Bios Project in October 2003 by Jeffrey L. Elmer

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Notice: These biographies were transcribed for the Washington Biographies
Project. Unless otherwise stated, no further information is available on the
individual featured in the biographies.