Former Claremont city manager, US Marine, world traveler, runner, nature lover

Keith Fitzalan Mulrooney, 87, a lifelong public servant and longtime resident of Alexandria, Virginia, died peacefully with his family around him on February 14.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, he graduated from Stanford University with a BA in history and later received a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California.

After serving proudly as First Lieutenant in the US Marine Corps, he began a career in city management. He worked as assistant city manager of Pomona, and as city manager of Claremont, as well as Alexandria.

For more than 10 years he served as executive director for the American Society for Public Administration, and was later nominated as Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration. He also worked for President George H.W. Bush as a presidential appointee in the Federal Highway Administration.

He began running at the age of 43, completing the first of six marathons in his mid-60s. His passion for environmental conservation led to more than a decade of service to The Nature Conservancy. He was a lifelong ambassador of Stanford University, particularly, Stanford in Washington.

With his perpetual drive for learning and a deep love of history, he became an avid world traveler, visiting more than 80 countries.

Family was first to Mr. Mulrooney, and he was known as “Bopa” to his grandchildren. He is survived by his children, Michèle, Jill and Scott and their spouses; and five grandchildren.

He was predeceased by both his first wife of roughly 40 years, Monica Kaufmann; and his second wife of 10 years, Catherine Mitchell.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made by check to The Nature Conservancy with “VA Chapter” in the memo line, mailed to The Nature Conservancy, 652 Peter Jefferson Pkwy., Suite 190, Charlottesville, VA 22911; or the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria, with “the Keith F. Mulrooney Memorial Scholarship” in the memo line, 3330 King St., Alexandria, VA 22302.