Obituary - John Peter Keating

John Peter Keating, 72, resident of Whiting NJ and former longtime resident of East Brunswick NJ, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at Community Hospital in Toms River NJ. John was born in Brooklyn NY September of 1952. His parents were John Keating and Louise Tasker, both of Brooklyn. He was one of six children. He graduated from East Brunswick High School in 1971. He received an Associate Degree from the Art Institute of Philadelphia, where, graduating with Honors and on the Dean’s List. His main interest was focused on Photography working for Forbes, Princeton Packet and the Patch.

After graduating from High School, John went to work for the Post Office. He left there and decided to travel Europe, spending months backpacking and going from one country to another. When he returned he decided to focus on learning the game of golf. He went to work at Forsgate Country Club Golf Course and excelled in the sport, as he did with anything he tried. During that time, John developed a passion for photography. After attending the Art Institute, he took a position as Staff Photographer with Forbes in Somerville. Some of his assignments were Lead Photographer for the LPGA & PGA tours where he did on-locations shots of movie personalities and political candidates. From there, he went to the Princeton Packet, Cranbury/Plainsboro division and remained for 18 years. As a Freelance Photographer, John did various work for the YMCA, South Brunswick H.S. and commercial advertising companies along with weddings, events and portraits. Again, John excelled as a photographer. He was a seven time NJPA Award Winner, winner of the Kodak International Newspaper Snapshot Award, received high accolades of his profession, and numerous articles were written about his work. At the same time, he managed the historical Buckelew Mansion in Jamesburg, and lived there taking care of the house and grounds.

John was an accomplished musician, playing the piano, guitar (classical and acoustic), and an award winning bagpiper. He was part of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh Band in Old Bridge NJ. John spent many a nights at our home playing the guitar while we sang along.

He was a member of the Focolare Group at St. Thomas Church during his younger years. He also served as a Catholic Eucharistic Minister at his Church.

John was a dedicated son and brother. When his mother took ill, he was her main caretaker over a period of 10 years. He did this so she could remain at home, which she did and was grateful. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Louise. Those left to cherish his memory are his siblings Kathleen, Barbara, Brian, Kevin Keating (Patti/spouse), Regina Vitale (Mark/spouse), and his nieces and nephews Candace, Shawna, Nicole, Joseph, Erika and Anthony along with several great nieces, nephews and cousins.