June 7, 1947 – May 18, 2026
John G. Graas, 78, of Kirkwood, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026. He was born on June 7, 1947, in Buffalo, New York, to the late John J. Graas and Jane Sharp. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Alison Graas, with whom he shared 36 years of partnership, laughter, and devotion, and by his stepdaughter, Megan Frederick.
John is survived by his brother, John “David” Graas; his loving partner, Betsy Dow; his step‑sons, Chris Jones and Scott Frederick; and his cherished grandchildren—Alison (Ashley), Drew (Jasmine), and Regan. He also leaves behind two great‑granddaughters, Flora and Millie, who brought him immense joy in his later years.
John lived a full and wonderful life, marked by curiosity, achievement, and a deep commitment to others. He graduated from Butler University with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and later earned his Master of Business Administration from Washington University in St. Louis. Guided by both intellect and entrepreneurial spirit, he founded Systems Design Associates (SDA, Inc.), a computer software development company that reflected his forward‑thinking approach and passion for innovation.
A member of St. Peter’s Parish in Kirkwood, John grounded his life in faith and service. He volunteered his time helping at‑risk youth improve their reading skills, believing wholeheartedly in the power of education and opportunity. His interests were wide‑ranging—he once held a private pilot’s license and maintained a lifelong love of travel, classical music, and art.
John will be remembered for his gentle wisdom, his generosity, and the quiet steadiness with which he supported the people he loved. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the community he served, and the many lives he touched.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church in Kirkwood, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Peter’s Church, the St. Louis Symphony, or a charity of your choice.