O’Keefe retires from Mile Bluff

In 2005, the family, friends and colleagues of James O’Keefe gathered to celebrate his new position as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Mile Bluff Medical Center. Sixteen years later, another event was held in his honor, this time to wish him well in retirement.

To kick off the festivities, Dr. Dan Kattenbraker addressed O’Keefe on behalf of the board of directors, saying “We’ve accomplished a lot under your leadership, so it’s not easy to say good-bye.” He continued, “I’m looking forward to seeing where Mile Bluff goes from here; and I wish you the best in your future.”

Another highlight of the event was when O’Keefe was presented with the Rural Champion, Partner & Friend award from the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative. It was given in recognition of the commitment O’Keefe has had to rural healthcare throughout his career.

“For the past 16 years I’ve worked for an organization I love, performing a job I truly enjoy” expressed O’Keefe. “I will absolutely miss being an active member of this game-changing team.”

Reflecting back, O’Keefe shared, “I remember the excitement I felt when I was introduced to Mile Bluff. Today I’m excited about retirement, but am definitely going to miss being involved in the day-to-day decision making that takes place here.”

O’Keefe concluded, “I feel like I’m leaving Mile Bluff in even better hands; and am looking forward to the positive changes that are to come under Mile Bluff’s new leadership.”