John Terrence O'Grady

O’Grady, J. Terrence

The family of John Terrence O’Grady wish to express their gratitude for the outpouring of condolences received after his passing on July 4th, 2023 at the age of 87. (Original announcement in the Saskatoon Star Phoenix, Sat. July 8th). In keeping with Dad’s wishes, a small, private ceremony will be held with interment at Zelma Cemetery later this month. We have made every effort to reach all family and friends, although we have not been successful in all cases. We encourage those who have not yet heard from us to contact us.

Dad was very concerned with animal welfare and had a particular fondness for dogs and cats. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to contribute in his memory are asked to donate to a charitable organization, perhaps along those lines, although he would have been happy with any donation to any charity of your choice. Kindest Regards and Love from Terry and family to all.

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John Terrence O’Grady

It is with deep sadness that the family of John Terrence “Terry” O’Grady announce his sudden passing at home on Tuesday, July 4th, 2023 at the age of 87. Terry contended with a heart condition and fought a courageous battle with cancer for the previous year. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Phyllis (Slack), his daughters Dawn White (Barry), Kelly Bradovka (George) and son Kent; grandchildren Jamie White, Samuel and Laramie Bradovka. He is also survived by his brother Patrick, sister Judith (Tom) Yick, and sister-in-law, Denise (Brian). He was predeceased by his parents, Latham O’Grady, Joan (Renny) Temple, step-father Ray Don Temple, brother Brian and sister in-law Margaret.

Terry was born on Jan. 26, 1936 in the town of Allan, SK, and raised on the family farm 16 miles south of there. His family moved to Allan in 1948. He was educated at Orleton and Allan Schools. He was employed initially in the gravel industry alongside a lifetime involvement in farming. He spent two years working with the Manitoba Power Commission in Winnipeg, before returning to Saskatoon to work for Cockshutt Farm Equipment. He married Phyllis Slack in 1956 before joining the Saskatoon Fire Department in Jan. of 1958. Over the years he earned several promotions and served as the Secretary and President of Local 80 for some time. Dad was promoted to the role of Deputy Chief, retiring in 1992. Terry was instrumental in starting the Saskatoon Fire Department Band with the cooperation of Fire Chief T. Lennon. Dad was a musical genius being self-taught on the clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn and piano. His musical skills were enjoyed at many a dance hall in Saskatoon and rural Saskatchewan.

Despite a very full schedule, he still spent as much time as he could helping out his step-father Don Temple with the farming operation. After retiring from the Fire Service, Dad continued farming for many years. After a second retirement from farming, he thoroughly enjoyed lending a helping hand to his friends in their farming endeavours. He worked hard for his family and community, and his contributions to the Allan, South Allan, Bradwell, Saskatoon, and Zelma communities will not be forgotten.

Funeral Services in care Mourning Glory – Acadia McKague’s Funeral Chapel date to be announced. Interment at Zelma Cemetery, date to be announced.

Memorial Donations in Terry's name may be made to charity of donors choice