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David Gallagher Obituary
Sept. 13, 1942 - Feb. 25, 2018
Bakersfield, CA
David Lee Gallagher was born the 4th of 9 children on September 13, 1942, to James Francis (Frank) and Ruth Gallagher, in Oakland, California. The family moved to Santa Cruz, where Frank served as Athletic Director at Holy Cross Elementary and High Schools. With his brothers, David was an altar boy, and worked summers with classmates and his brothers for Marinis at the Beach. The family moved to Bakersfield, where David and Barry graduated from Garces Memorial High School, Class of '60. David continued his education at Bakersfield College, where he met his future wife, Patricia Adams, then attended Sacramento State and later, McGeorge School of Law. Deciding the legal field was not his preference, he returned to Bakersfield, and opened a series of businesses, including: Gallagher's Liquors; The Sandwich and Ice Cream Works, and for the past 31 years, operated Crosstown Insurance, where he remained with his "boss" Jeri Higgins until 2017.
David is preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Pat Hacker; brothers Dennis and Barry Gallagher, niece Amy Gallagher, nephews Kurt Gripenstraw and Jeff Hacker. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, daughter Kristin (Randy) Nielson and son Dr. Brett (Lisa) Gallagher (SMC "95) and grandchildren Tyson Nielson; A.J. David; Kennedy Nielson; Ryan and Beth Gallagher; who were all the joys of his life.
He is also survived by brothers Douglas (Rose) Gallagher of Bonny Doon; Brother Ronald Gallagher F.S.C. of San Francisco and Moraga; sisters Kathleen Gallagher of Amherst, Mass; Sharon Gallagher Tashjian of Fresno, and Maureen (Terry) Chung of Kilauea, Kauai; sisters-in-law Kate Gallagher of Long Beach WA. and Jill (Terry) Hummel of Idaho. In addition, David was revered by numerous nieces and nephews around the globe, from County Cork Ireland to Kilauea, Kauai.
Services will be held Tuesday March 13th at St Francis of Assisi Church in Bakersfield, with a Rosary at 8:30 and Mass at 9:00 am, and reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Knights of Columbus, Knights for Life; Relay For Life, or to an Education Fund for his grandchildren through You Caring.com
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Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries
Colleen Gallagher
August 19, 2024
My sincerest condolences to Aunt Pat, Kristen, Brett and all David's grandchildren. My memories of Uncle David were of a kind man who provided well for his family. He was full of funny anecdotes. I was lucky to have spent time with him at his home in Bakersfield and at family gatherings in Santa Cruz and Sierra foothills.
Thank you for all the good times.
Verna Groves
March 9, 2018
My sincere condolences to your family. I didn't know him personally, but felt I knew him through his daughter, Kristin. Also my sister and her family, Fred and Mary Thompson, spoke so highly of him. May you find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
March 9, 2018
My sincere condolences to the family for the loss of your loved one. May prayers strengthen you and memories comfort you. "May God our father, who loves us, comfort your heart." 2 Thessalonians 2:16,17.
Sharon Elizabeth Gallagher
March 6, 2018
I will miss a million and one things about my big brother David. His gentle nature as I was young teaching me how to sweep the floor resonates with me. I was learning to read, (and sweep)and he told me to use elbow grease. For years I searched the aisles of many hardware stores in search of elbow grease.I remember my awkward teenage years in Santa Cruz, when he and Barry stayed with us on Grant Street, and they both assured me I was valued, worthy and beautiful. I will miss his sharp wit, but most of all, I will miss his hugs. When we were little, Maureen and I remembered recently, he never let go first. I love you Davey, I will never let go of loving you...
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