John L. Grotophorst age 80, of Sauk City, WI passed away on July 21, 2025, at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg following complications of a stroke.

He was born to Lynn and Esther (Zech) Grotophorst on November 23, 1944, and which happened to be their first wedding anniversary date. He attended the Little Prairie one room school just down the road from his lifetime home. He graduated from the Sauk City High School Class of 1962, shortly after which he attended a UW Madison Agriculture short course program.

John's lifetime home was the family homestead farm in the Township of Honey Creek where he initially farmed with his parents, and then later taking over the farming operation himself. After retiring from day-to-day dairy farm operations, he then worked for L&N Tractor Repair in Prairie du Sac for 22 years before retiring fully.

John was one of the founding members of the Badger Steam & Gas Engine Club, Baraboo, and was actively engaged for many years with the annual show.

John is survived by his younger siblings, Mary (Bob) Johnson, David (Barbara), Ann (Harlan) Merwin, Paul, Lillian (Dennis) Stewart, Betty, Jean, Kay, Keith, and Duane (Virginia Wiggins), and his 15 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law Dennis Stewart.

We want to thank all the doctors, nurses, and other patient support staff at St. Mary's Hospital Madison for his care. We would also like thank Sauk Prairie Healthcare – Wellspring rehabilitation, and Agrace Hospice Care for their support.

The best way to honor John is to please consider a donation to Agrace Hospice Care, or Badger Steam & Gas Engine Club.

A small remembrance ceremony is being planned for a later date.