Time period/Baraboo: 1930’s - 2022

Submitted by: Joe Ward and Patrick Geoghegan

John has been a vibrant member of the community for many years and has made significant contributions to the betterment of our wonderful home town through public service and volunteerism. The Geoghegans have lived in Baraboo since 1917, when John’s father, an engineer for the Chicago and North Western Railroad and mother, Agnes, moved their young family here. Thus, John has lived nearly in whole life --now counting 100 years – in Baraboo. John’s only time away from our community was during World War II when he entered the U.S. Army, ultimately serving in Europe with the 7th Army, becoming one of the first units to cross the Siegfried Line in 1944. He went on to earn a Bronze Star for heroism, and a Battlefield Commission to Second Lt., before being wounded in Germany in spring 1945.

After the war he married Arizona native Jane Allen and moved back to Baraboo where Mom and Dad enjoyed the love and laughter of a 65-year marriage and six children in the community that has been so important to the family. Initially John went into the construction business and in 1962, was elected Sauk County Highway Commissioner. He served with distinction in that capacity for 30 years, the longest term of service of any highway commissioner in the county’s history. During his time as the highway commissioner, John was elected president of the Wisconsin County Highway Commissioners Association.