Robert Opel

On July 9, 1979, Robert was murdered inside the San Francisco art studio where he lived. Maurice Keenan and accomplices went to the studio intending to rob him. Although Robert did not resist, Keenan held a gun to his head and, without provocation, shot and killed him.

Robert Opel was a gifted, accomplished man whose life reflected creativity, intellect, service, and compassion. An Eagle Scout and member of the Order of the Arrow, Robert later studied English and Political Science at Providence College, where he served as student body president. He earned a master’s degree in linguistics, published a book, and was an accomplished pianist and photographer. He also served in the Peace Corps, worked as a political speechwriter, and became an advocate for the gay community.

 A jury convicted Maurice Keenan of first-degree murder and sentenced him to death following a penalty hearing. His sentence was later commuted to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.