Christopher J. Halligan Sr.

Christopher Joseph Halligan Sr. Christopher Joseph Halligan Sr., of Gloucester, MA, died peacefully at his home during the early morning hours of March 13. He was 81 years old. Chris was born on June 3, 1928 in Chelsea, MA, son of late Christopher J. Halligan and Mary Ellen O'Hara Halligan. The middle child of three, Chris and his brother, Don and sister, Joan spent their childhood in Belmont, MA. After his graduation from Belmont High School in 1946, Chris entered the U.S. Marine Corps. He served in China as part of the 12th Service Battalion, 4th Marine Division. He was honorably discharged in 1948. Chris attended Boston University Business School and upon completing his undergraduate studies worked in a number of sales related occupations. Marrying his high school sweetheart, Joanne Sanderson, Chris moved to Wellesley, MA, where for the next 35 years they lived and raised their family of three boys and two girls. In 1965, Chris became sole owner of the Westerbeke Fishing Gear Company with locations in Gloucester and South Boston. Westerbeke eventually became a family run business with the help of his eldest children, Christopher and Elaine. While enjoying his 'semi-retirement' over the past few years, Chris passed the control of the company to his son, Christopher Jr. Chris is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Joanne, his five children, Chris Jr., Elaine, Michael, Scott and Bonnie Jean and his six grandchildren. Chris Halligan was a father and husband who spent his life trying to instill in his children and grandchildren the values inherent in family devotion and hard work. He lived life with great optimism, humor and generosity. Visiting hours will be held in the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington St., Gloucester on Thursday, March 18, from 3:00-6:00pm. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend. The burial will be private. There will be a Memorial Service held at the Cruiseport Gloucester, 6 Rowe Square, on Friday, March 19, at 11:00am. A luncheon reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Gloucester Fisherman Athletic Association (GFAA), which provides support for athletic sports and related activities for the youth of Gloucester. Donations can be made by visiting the website at www.gfaa.org and selecting the PayPal option or by sending check or money order to The GFAA, PO Box 3010, Gloucester, MA 01930. Online condolences may be given at www.greelyfuneralhome.com.