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William Gallagher Obituary
Nov. 1, 1940 - July 24, 2016
Resident of San Jose
William "Bill" James Gallagher peacefully passed away with family by his side on July 24th, 2016 at the age of 75 after a valiant two and half year battle with cancer. A proud third generation native of San Francisco, his family moved to Burlingame when he was a young boy where he attended Our Lady of Angels. He was a proud graduate of Bellarmine High School, and later earned a bachelor's degree from Seattle University. After graduation he served as a Captain in the U.S. Army, and was stationed in Germany for 2 years.
Bill was a loving and devoted husband to his wife Sandy for 45 years, and the cherished father of Kerry Elliott (Chuck) and Matthew, both of San Jose. He was the adored Papa of Brooke and Nicholas Elliott. Bill also leaves behind his brother Tom Gallagher (Allyson) of Anchorage, Alaska and brother-in-law, Michael Rogers (Jan) of Concord, CA, as well as several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents James and Edna Gallagher.
Bill retired from a successful career as a Human Resource executive. A life-long jazz fan, he loved to attend jazz festivals, and reviewed albums and published articles for jazz magazines, as well as discographies for a few of his favorite musicians. In retirement, he enjoyed genealogy, travelling with his wife and attending his grandchildren's activities. An avid fan of all Bay Area sports, the Giants' World Series win on his 70th birthday was the highlight of his birthday celebration. A great lover of humor. He wore a natural smile, and always had a joke on hand so that others could wear one too.
His passion for all things family, sharp wit, intellect and Papa cuddles will be missed immensely.
A funeral mass will be held on Friday, August 5th, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Holy Spirit Church, 1200 Redmond Ave., San Jose. Reception to follow. Donations may be made in Bill's memory to Wounded Warrior Project, or charity of your choice.
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Memories and Condolences
for William Gallagher
Sponsored by San Jose Mercury News.
4 Entries
Katherine Coney
August 7, 2016
I'm so very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. My mother, Mary Jane David, and I both had the blessing of working with him. I remember his smile and laughter well. God bless family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Alden Jewell
August 6, 2016
Bill was our Human Resources Manager at ESD many years ago. I remember him as a very personable guy, always smiling and joking. I'm very sorry to hear of his passing.
Gloria Perry
August 4, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the Gallagher family as you all mourn the loss of a great husband, loving father and cherished grandpa. I have many fond memories of working with him at FMC. He was my first boss as I began a life long career working in Compensation. May he rest in peace.
Stephanie Farnum
August 2, 2016
All of our love to you Elliot family and Gallagher family. What a blessed man to have all of you.
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Memorial Events
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Funeral services provided by:
Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel - San Jose710 Willow Street, San Jose, CA 95125
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