PIERRE, SD – John W. Beougher (Fireman John, AKA; Magic Grandpa), a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, in Pierre, South Dakota, at the age of 88. Born on January 5, 1937, in Grinnell, Kansas, John’s life journey was marked by dedication, service, and an enduring love for his family and community.

Graduating from Grinnell High School, John furthered his education at Fort Hays State College before embarking on a career that would define much of his life’s work. His early professional years were started in Onida, South Dakota, where he served as a Range Conservation Officer. In 1978, John, alongside his loving wife Mary and their children, moved to Pierre. It was there that he began his long-standing tenure with the City of Pierre.

John’s commitment to public service was further exemplified by his employment with the Pierre Fire Department, where he was not only a volunteer member of Engine 2 but also played a crucial role in the Airport Crash Rescue at the airport. For 25 years, he dedicated himself to fire prevention, using his magic and Dalmatian to teach young children about fire safety, ensuring the safety and well-being of the Pierre community.

John’s Christian faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him in his actions and his interactions with others. His interests were as varied as they were passionate. From magic to farming, gardening to painting, and photography, John embraced each with enthusiasm and a keen eye for detail. He had a particular fondness for Dalmatians, a love that began in 1982 and continued throughout his life, with at least one Dalmatian by his side until his final days.

Known for his loving nature, thoughtful gestures, and generous spirit, John’s presence was a gift to all who knew him. He had an innate ability to make those around him feel valued and loved, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.

In addition to his professional life, John was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife of many years, Mary; his children, Becky (Brad) Richardson, Sheila Lee, Jeffery (Darcy) Beougher, and Laurel (Brad) Brooks; his grandchildren, Taylor (Maddie), Trevor, Teryn, Nicole (Solomon), Thomas, Bailey (Mitch), Riley, and Mason (Jen); and his great-grandchildren, Selah, Kaya, Aliyah, Ava, Evie, and Luke. He also leaves behind his sister, Donna (Chuck) Spath; his brother, Ken Beougher; sister-in-law, Dee Beougher; and numerous nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, Gael and Mary; his brothers, Virgil and Max; his sister, Opal Zimmerman and nephew, Darren Beougher.

Services will be held at a later date.

In Lieu of Flowers Memorials may be sent to Pierre Fire Dept. for Fire Prevention memory of John at PO Box 1092, Pierre, SD 57501.

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