Tom O'Grady

Tom O'Grady, a decorated combat veteran of the Vietnam War, passed away on April 3, 2023, at the age of 73. He was born on July 22, 1949, and spent his formative years between Broadus, MT and Western Washington.

Tom attended High School in Broadus from 1966 to 1967. Only leaving his family ranch (Earley) when he was called to the Vietnam War.

Tom was a Marine and served his country with bravery and distinction in the Vietnam War. As a forward observer, Tom called in a Ring of Steel around his fellow marines during a retrograde after being nearly overrun by the enemies far superior numbers. This swift and skillful act of bravery saved many lives and earned Tom meritorious corporal.

He survived the Battle of Khe Sanh, where 6000 marines held off an assault by 30000 enemy forces. Tom designed and built a bunker that was designed by combat engineers, Tom's bunker was confiscated by the offices and staff so Tom had to build another one similar to shelter in, and built it twice as fast. Tom loved the Marine Corps and was very proud of his accomplishments as a Marine.

He was a true hero, receiving three Purple Heart medals and a Silver Star.

After his military service, Tom returned home and devoted himself to his family. He was first married to Linda Sterling, and they had a child together named Missy. However, their marriage ended in divorce. In 1996, Tom met the love of his life, Grace, and they were married. Together, they had a daughter named Tommy O'Grady, and Tom cherished his role as a father. Together he, Grace, and Tommy lived together in Northwest Washington until his death.

Tom Loved to return to Powder River County regularly. He loved visiting his brother Ben in Savage, MT and his brother Lester in Powderville on the homestead. He disliked interstate highways, but this never stopped him from finding small two lane roads to drive his 1950 Ford from his home in Western Washington all the way to Eastern Montana.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Grace, their daughter Tommy, his daughter Missy, and his brothers Ed, Lester, Benjamin, and sisters, Connie, Colleen, Marilyn, Barbie, and numerous nephews and nieces. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. He is welcomed home by his sister Jane, mother Norma and father.

No formal service is planned currently. There will be a celebration of his life planned at a later date.