John Leonard Garavaglia III, affectionately known as “John G.,” entered this world on September 4, 1946, and peacefully entered eternal life on July 31, 2026. He was 79 years old.
John was a lifelong St. Louisan, spending nearly his entire life in the city he loved. From 1982 to 1988, he and his family lived in Asheville, North Carolina, after his employer, Bussmann Fuse Manufacturing (Cooper Industries), relocated him there. In 1988, he returned home to St. Louis to serve as Vice President of Manufacturing. Throughout his career, John also held leadership positions with Diagraph Industries and Jackson Products. Even after retiring from corporate life, his entrepreneurial spirit never faded, and he remained active in several small business ventures. John was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where he valued faith, fellowship, and serving his community.
Education was important to John. He attended St. James the Greater Grade School, graduated from Christian Brothers College High School, and later furthered his professional education through Harvard Business School. He also proudly served for a time in the National Guard.
To those who knew him, John was charismatic, bold, and never met a stranger. He had a gift for conversation and a personality that left a lasting impression wherever he went.
John had a lifelong passion for collecting sports memorabilia and other unique treasures. He enjoyed the thrill of the hunt and would gladly travel miles to find that one special piece to add to his collection. His enthusiasm for sports and history brought him great joy and created countless memories along the way. Whether gathered around the kitchen table with family and friends or enjoying a trip to the casino, John always loved a good game of cards. It wasn’t just about winning—it was the laughter, friendly competition, and time spent with the people he loved that made those moments so special. John always found happiness in the simple pleasures of life.
His faith was the foundation of his life. A devoted member of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Catholic Church, John faithfully served as a Eucharistic Minister, usher, Adoration Chapel volunteer, and gave generously of his time each year at the parish picnic. His love for God was reflected in the way he served others with both his hands and his heart.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Martha Garavaglia; his beloved uncle, Leonard; and his son, John.
He leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his memory: his children, Sheila, Roger, Angelina, John IV, Anthony, Charles, and Richard; his sister, Jane; his brother-in-law, Ken; 15 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; as well as nephews, cousins, dear friends, and all whose lives he touched.
John’s legacy is one of faith, hard work, and devotion. His larger-than-life personality, and love for those around him will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing he has been welcomed into the eternal peace of Heaven.
Visitation Saturday, August 8, 9:30 a.m. until Funeral Mass 10:30 a.m. at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, 4900 Ringer Rd. (63129). Interment Resurrection Cemetery. www.kutisfuneralhomes.com
Our deepest condolences. Mr. John was a dear friend of my grandaddy, Reid Davis. I know he loved him dearly and they are together in Heaven. All our love.
John was such a kind man I worked with him many years at Bussmann we all have such good memories of working there My thoughts and prayers for the whole family My heart goes out to each of you. We also had a great time at Bussmann reunion in Asheville a few years ago it was great getting to see John and all our fellow workers.
I am so very sorry to hear of John’s passing, God bless his soul may he rest in peace.
You will be missed by all of us.
Please accept our condolences.
God bless you and those of us who you have left behind.
We will miss you.
Our condolences to the Garavaglia family.
You were one great person
Words seem so inadequate at a time like this. Sudden deaths leave us in a state of shock. The human body’s way of protecting from the pain of loss. We only feel the hurt because we have loved.
That’s the danger of loving. John was a man of conviction and courage, but if you were fortunate enough to be his friend you were blessed. My heartfelt condolences to his family, even though I never met you, I knew you from the prideful stories he told. So, my dear John, well done good and faithful servant, but you weren’t supposed to beat me to heaven!
Please accept my deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of loss.
May God grant you peace, comfort you in your grief, and sustain you through this difficult time.
Jane and to all his Loved ones, I’m so sorry to hear of John’s passing. May you forever keep cherished memories of John in your hearts. Sincerely, Bruce Smith (Dogtown)
When John and I first met, I sensed that I was in the presence of a unique individual. After an initial rocky start, our relationship improved quickly and grew into one that was truly unparalleled. His enthusiasm and work ethic were clearly part of his personality. Even more evident was his faith and love of family. These characteristics were a positive influence that cemented a partnership between us that accomplished much.
With much gratitude, I offer my wish for John’s Heavenly welcoming and for peace to embrace Brenda and family.
I can’t count the times that John came to my rescue. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds. He will live on in my memory and my heart.. He is an inspiration for how to live a life of service and giving. A huge loss will be so hard to fill. I pray the family will soon find peace and comfort. He would have wanted that. 💕💕🙏 Valerie
Charles, this is Steve. I just talked with you and found out my ears heard right in church Sunday.
Again, so,so sorry. Your dad brought Jesus to me many Sundays. I will remember him forever in this life till hopefully I join him in God’s Kingdom for eternity.
God bless you and your family.