John DeGrood

John Lambert DeGrood, age 89 of Mankato, died peacefully Tuesday, April 12, 2016 surrounded by his family at his home.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 3:30 p.m., Monday, May 16, 2016 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Mankato. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, School Sisters of Notre Dame or the donor’s choice. Mankato Mortuary in charge of arrangements.

John was born May 16, 1926 to Lambert and Ann (Derks) DeGrood in Milbank, South Dakota. John grew up in Winona, MN. He graduated from Cotter High School in 1944. John enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps. on November 5, 1945 though1948. John was united in marriage to Shirley Josephine McCabe of Rochester, MN in 1949. In 1952 John came to Mankato, borrowed $2,000, co-signed some inventory and opened DeGrood’s Appliance. With considerable risk, careful management and the help of two sons, it developed into a successful business. Johns served a four year term on the Mankato City Council 1962–1965. He served on the Chamber of Commerce Board, Valley Industrial Development Corp. Board, Knights of Columbus, and as a St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Trustee.

John loved flying, building model airplanes, working in his shop, gardening and spending time with his 13 children and many grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley of 67 years; twelve children, Mary (James) Bull, Joan (Gregg) Andersen, Steve DeGrood, John (Sarah) DeGrood, Marie DeGrood, Therese (Dan) Lord, Pete (Elizabeth) DeGrood, Ann Slottow, Jane (Lee) Carlstrom, Amy DeGrood, Gretchen DeGrood, Katerina (John) Haley; daughter-in-law. Mary Kay DeGrood; 23 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sister, Fran Yahnke and brother, Edward DeGrood.

John was preceded in death by his parents; son, Joe DeGrood; grandson, Derk Slottow; sons-in-law, Donald Wall and Luke Slottow; brothers, Tom and Richard; sisters, Bette, Louise, and Mary.

John’s goal was to provide well for his children. His family is thankful for his wisdom, quite deep faith, work ethic, honesty, love and generosity.

The DeGrood family especially thanks all care givers and Sunset Blvd. neighbors for their hospitable care and compassion. His wish to remain in his home held true, thanks to your kind help. In addition we would like to acknowledge DeGrood’s Appliance past and present employees and customers for helping build his legacy.