Michael A. Gallagher Jr.

Michael A. Gallagher, Jr.

On Wednesday February 24, 2021 Michael A. Gallagher Jr. died unexpectedly at the age of 40.

Michael is survived by his parents, Mike and Jackie; his sister, Tara Amsterdam and her husband, Jon; and nieces, Elizabeth and Julie whom he adored. Additionally, Michael is survived by too many family members to list, but none are forgotten. Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Jennie Gallagher, and Dr. Albert and Anne Sowers; and his cousin, Curt Weldon Jr.

Michael attended Ursuline and St. Elizabeth grade schools and was a 1998 National Honor Society Graduate of Salesianum School. He attended the University of Delaware in the Honors program.

In his formative years he was a SODE unified partner in a variety of sports. Michael played Canal and Piedmont little league baseball. He enjoyed youth ice hockey, was a member of the Wilton and Oakwood Valley pool summer swim team. During grade school he wrestled, played basketball and football. While at Salesianum, he excelled in the classroom while enrolling in AP classes. He was a stage crew/theater member where he co-wrote and produced a "One Act" play. His personal art portfolio included paintings of which he was very proud.

Michael loved history, philosophy, math, science, music and art. A self-taught guitarist, he had a collection of guitars, amplifiers, and music books from which he played. At Christmas time he shared these talents playing and singing for the family. Michael also enjoyed gaming with his Playstation. A Jeopardy wiz, and table game teammate everyone wanted, his quick answers were generally correct. Michael enjoyed cooking, food preparation. Michael was kind, generous, strong, and deliberately thoughtful in selecting just the right gifts for family holidays, birthdays, and special occasions.

An employee with ShopRite for over 8 years, he received regular compliments and certificates of appreciation for his steady work. He also played softball with his co-workers and his generosity and thoughtfulness extended to his co-workers. Regularly, Michael could be seen performing random acts of kindness to those in need on and off the job, never expecting accolades or rewards. To Michael, everyone was valued regardless of their state in life.

Over the past 20+ years Michael's life became more complex, difficult, and challenging. He dealt with issues of alcoholism and mental illness on a daily basis. He tenaciously fought. He used inner strength and learned tools and techniques, exhausting every support available to him.

Michael sported an "infinity" tattoo. Amid the complication and struggle, he found simplicity, goodness and relentless strength. Coming from the latin word "Infinitas" meaning "Unboundedness", Michael is now unbound from his suffering, having earned the right to a peace he constantly strived to attain.

Due to Covid all services will be held privately. A celebration of Michael's life for family and friends will be held at a later date.

Donations in Michael's memory can be made to: NAMI Delaware, Att. Samantha Havens, 2400 W. 4th Street, Wilmington, DE 19805.

Doherty Funeral Home

302-999-8277

To offer condolences, visit:

www.dohertyfh.com