RAPID CITY | We celebrate the life of a most remarkable man, John Joseph Herlihy, 65. On Saturday, Dec. 10, he passed away peacefully at home in Rapid City, surrounded by his family.

John was born Aug. 27, 1951, in Enid, OK. He grew up as one of 11 children. He attended the University of Oklahoma for undergraduate studies, medical school, and residency, followed by a fellowship in San Francisco. On June 1, 1973, John married his beloved Patricia Bertalan in Norman, OK.

John was a gifted and caring surgeon who founded his ophthalmology practice in Rapid City in 1983. He touched the lives of thousands of patients and colleagues over his more than 30-year career. He enjoyed the outdoors, riding his Harley-Davidson, the Rolling Stones, and most of all his family. He was a world traveler who loved people, and lived his life with a great love for God.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mary Herlihy.

John is survived by his wife, Patti, Rapid City; three daughters: Erin (Tom) Fritz, Seattle; Ginny Herlihy, Rapid City; Lauren (Aaron) Cloud, Denver; son: JR (Megan) Herlihy, New York City; three grandchildren; 10 siblings; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at Blessed Sacrament Church (4500 Jackson Blvd.) with a Christian Wake Service and Rosary at 7 p.m.

Christian Funeral Mass will be offered at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Church with Rev. Brian Lane presiding.

Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

The family suggests memorials to Catholic Social Services: 529 Kansas City St. Suite 100, Rapid City, SD 57701