John was born in Sturgis, SD, June 30, 1962, to William and Ella Jane (Alexander) O'Grady. John attended grade school at the Plainview School, St. Francis, and Metishigoshe School. He went to high school at St. Martin's Academy, Rapid City, SD, and graduated in 1980. He was a longtime rancher until health concerns caused him to retire in 2012.

John was always a good neighbor, lived his Faith, and was a generous supporter of his church and community. He was a life-member of Our Lady of Victory near Howes. He enjoyed bargain hunting and sharing his treasures. In later years, the KBHB radio auction was a Saturday morning staple. John was also very active on a couple agricultural message boards and will be missed by online friends from across the United States. They recognized his wisdom, humor and passion for ranch life.

In later years, it was harder for John to work but he still maintained the local cemetery and community hall grounds. That service gave him great pleasure.

John William O'Grady, 54, longtime resident of rural Meade county, died Friday June 9, 2017, at the Black Hills Care and Rehab Center in Rapid City, SD.

He is survived by his sister, Lucille; two aunts and two uncles; and numerous generations of cousins. John loved his family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, James Robert; maternal and paternal grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening, June 13, with a rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m.at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.

Mass of Christian burial will be held Wednesday, June 14, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Sturgis with Fr. Timothy Castor and Fr. James Hoerter officiating. Burial will follow at St. Aloysius cemetery in Sturgis.

Pallbearers are Dale Heaton, Brad Austin, Lynn Tarrant, Greg Loen, Jim O'Dea, and Wayne Mickelson. Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Austin, Robert Compton, Allen Waterland, Cory Cody, and Dwight Winn, along with all family and friends.

A memorial has been established to the Enning Ambulance Service and Fire Department.

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