Edwin James Gallagher Sr.

Edwin James Gallagher, Sr.
May 20, 1920â€"January 07, 2014
Resident of Lafayette

Edwin James Gallagher, Sr., (Ted) 93, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2014 in Lafayette, CA. 

Ted was born on May 20, 1920 in Oakland, CA to Francis and Imelda Gallagher, and was the youngest of eleven siblings.  Ted was preceded in death by his wonderful Tisha, with whom he celebrated 63 years of marriage.

Ted was the proud and loving father of Mary (Terry) McGlynn of Lafayette, CA Patty (Robert) Heller of Truckee, CA, Frank (MaryAnn) of Little River, CA, Ted Jr. (Courtney) of Lafayette, CA and Jim (Barbara) of Lafayette, CA.  He was "Papa Ted" to his adoring eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. His sense of family, and the importance he placed on it, is a legacy that will be carried on by all of them.

Following graduation from University High School in Oakland, Ted enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on July 27, 1942.  He participated in the initial occupation of the Majuro Atoll in the Marshall Islands in 1944.  He proudly and valiantly served his country in battle as a sergeant, and achieved the distinction of expert rifleman before being honorably discharged on October 29, 1945.

Upon his return from military service, Ted began his life-long career at Gallagher & Burk, Inc. an Oakland paving and grading firm.  He began working for his brother, Jack, performing many duties including laborer, truck driver and foreman. He went on to supervise the operations of the construction and material divisions, eventually running and purchasing the company.  Over the years, Gallagher & Burk, Inc. built many of the roads, ports, airports and other infrastructure in the greater East Bay and beyond.

Ted's love of Oakland was immeasurable. He loved sports, and had great affection for his Oakland Raiders and Oakland A's.  What a tailgate party he and Tisha could throw before every Raiders home game.

Ted and Tisha's love of Stinson Beach led to the purchase of a lot and then building, with his own hands, a beautiful beachfront home in the late 1950's. They did a repeat performance in the same community in the early 1980's.  This was his special place where he could hear the crashing waves while entertaining their many guests.

 Ted was a deeply spiritual man, and never lost sight of his humble beginnings.  He always remained loyal to his Oakland roots, and felt a true sense of duty to his community.  When an Oakland school, church or other non-profit needed a new parking lot or playground, he would have a crew with trucks and materials out there within days.  Ted was truly one of the greats of the "greatest generation".

Our family would like to express our deep gratitude to the staff at Atria Lafayette who provided such loving care to our parents.

Please join us for a Celebration of Ted's Life at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at St. Perpetua Catholic Church, 3454 Hamlin Road, Lafayette, CA.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Shelter, Inc. 1815 Arnold Dr., Martinez, CA 94553 or to Vitas Community Connections, 355 Lennon Lane #150, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.

Grant Miller-John Cox

Mortuary FD 171

510-451-6434