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