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Zachary Gallagher Obituary
SOUTH BEND - Zachary Charles Gallagher, 34, died unexpectedly on Saturday, July 28. Zach was born September 19, 1972, to Mark Gallagher and Lynn Leipold. He spent his active childhood in the greater South Bend area attending Stanley Clark School, St. Joseph High School and Culver Military Academy. Zach went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from The Rochester Institute of Technology in New York State. He was a talented hockey player and his passion for the sport spanned from childhood through his college career. On June 8, 1996, Zach married Mary Kathleen Florkowski in South Bend. Zach and Mary were blessed with two wonderful children, Cameron Charles in 1997, and Emma Kate in 2002. Together they made many moves supporting Zach's growing engineering profession. They lived in both Fort Wayne and Buffalo, NY, before settling back in South Bend. Along with his wife, children and parents, Zach is survived by his stepfather, Dr. Jon Leipold; his brothers, Clark and Graham Gallagher, both of South Bend, and John Leipold of San Francisco; sisters, Ellie Gallagher of Van Wert, OH, and Miggie (Dan) Bade of Wesley Chapel, FL. Zach was fortunate to be very close to his in-laws, Jerome and Cecilia Florkowski of South Bend. Zach was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Charles "Paykey" and Mary Stickler; his fraternal grandparents, Fred and Ruth Gallagher; sister-in-law, Kelly Florkowski Bieganski; and niece, Nicholette Bieganski. Zach enjoyed playing golf, talking politics, and following the White Sox, but the real joy for him was his family. Zach loved to play Lacrosse in the backyard with Cameron and to take long walks with Emma. The true loves of his life were Mary, Cameron and Emma and he took great pride in them. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Zach's life will be held at 10 a.m. today in Christ the King Catholic Church, 52473 Indiana State Road 933. Friends called Tuesday from 2 to 8 p.m. in the HICKEY Funeral Home, 17131 Cleveland Road. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cameron and Emma Gallagher Scholarship Fund arranged by Key Bank, 525 West Cleveland Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545.
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Memories and Condolences
for Zachary Gallagher
Therryn Rassi
August 20, 2007
Dear Mary,
I just wanted to let you know that you, Cam and Emma are in my thoughts and prayers. I love you guys dearly and if you ever need help babysitting just give me a call. I'll be happy to help whenever needed. I love that you guys are part of my family and you will always be in my heart! Love you all!
Derek Gittus- CMA '91
August 17, 2007
I lost touch with him after graduation, but I spent 2 terrific years playing hockey with Zach at Culver. He was a great teammate and I will always remember his infectious sense of humor. As a 34-year old father of two myself, I offer my deepest sympathies to his family, especially his wife and children. God Bless You.
Kris Dale
August 13, 2007
Dear Mary, Cam and Emma,
There are no words to express how sorry we are. Zach was a wonderful person who has an extra special place in our hearts as Sydney's godfather. We will miss him so much. We will always cherish all of the memories we have with him. Don't ever forget that we will always be here for you and the kids. We love you. You are one of the strongest women I know. You will make it thru this difficult time. You have two wonderful children to share your love and memories with.
Much love,
Kris and Brett
Vince and Kathy Gassensmith
August 12, 2007
Dear Mary,
Kathy and I send our deepest condlences. We were so sad to hear of your loss. You and your children are in our thoughts and prayers. God be with your family.
Love,
Dave Gassensmith
August 11, 2007
Mary,
I just don't know what to say except how sorry i am. I love you and i just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your children. If there is anything i can do to help just let me know.
John Schurz
August 10, 2007
Please accept our depest condolences. Our family will keep Zach, you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. God bless, John Schurz, Culver '91
MARIA EVANS
August 8, 2007
We wanted you to know Mary that you and the kids are in our thoughts and prayers daily. We love you all so much.
Brad and Maria Evans
Cousin Kurt/Lisa Gassensmith
August 8, 2007
Dear Mary,
I know this is late, and I spoke with you after the funeral, but I keep thinking of you and your family. I know words cannot take the pain of your loss away, but I want you to know one thing, you are so loved by many and when times are rough, lean on those close to you. God is with you always and HE will help guide you and your children through this difficult time. HE is working through these people, helping you through all the hard times. I love you and I am so sorry. I've always looked at you as the strong one, kind of tough, but very loving. You are truly strong and even though I'm in Indy, I would drop everything in a second for my family. If you need anything, if you want to talk, I am just a phone call away. You're a beautiful person Mary, we love you and we are thinking of you always.
Ciara Fournier
August 8, 2007
Mary,
Please know that your family is in our prayers. Although I never met Zach, I have been lucky to hear so many stories filled with love, laughter and affection from the "Sweeties". Your family is loved by so many...
With Love and Prayers,
Ciara & family
Heather Allman (Hans)
August 7, 2007
Mary,
I worked at Dr. Johns' and am good friends w/ Chuck and Kasey-- I just can't seem to get your loss out of my mind. I met Zach once at a birthday party for Ben (you were pregnant w/ Emma!)I pray for you and your children and know that your support system will pull you through.
With love and prayers,
Heather Allman (Hans)
Laura and Mike Pocza
August 7, 2007
Mary,So many memories, So many smiles, a ton of laughs, a treasured friendship and a lifetime of stories, yet there are no words.You are with out question the stongest person we know.Zach and you always knew how lucky you each were to have such a special partner in life.Your devotion to him through the last few years was a lesson in love and marriage.You have been extraordinary.
We feel so lucky to have known Zach and we will think of him everyday and smile.We love you, Cam and Emma so much and we'll be with you every step of the way.
Maybe not right away, but we will all laugh again-he would want us to.Maybe we won't hear him, but he will be laughing with us-Always!
All of our Love,
Laura and Mike
Aunt Judy Gassensmith
August 7, 2007
Dear Mary, Cam and Emma:
I am so saddened by your loss and also sad to know that Zach is gone from all of us - we will sorely miss him. He and I had fun sharing the same birthday and I will have a special prayer for him every year on Sept 19th.
Rest assured that he is watching out for all of you from his place in Heaven and take comfort knowing that he has found his peace.
My love and prayers to all of you.
Rachel Buchanan
August 7, 2007
Lancaster NY was a better place the day the Gallagher's moved to town. What a beautiful family! I have many fond memories that always bring a smile. Mary, I hope your memories, along with the love and support that surrounds you, provides comfort to you. I'm always here for you.
Cecilia Florkowski
August 7, 2007
Dear Mary, You know how special Zach was to us and how much we all loved him. He was a kind, thoughtful,loving young man with a great personality, a quick wit, and a beautiful smile. He holds a very special place in out hearts. He will be missed and loved always.
Daddy and I are here for you and our babies and if you need us let us know. You are a beautiful, strong young woman and I know that you will get through this terrible time in your life and raise your children to be loving and kind like their father.
Love Mom & Dad
Sheri and Ed Scheffler
August 7, 2007
Mary,
Zach loved you,Cameron, and Emma very much. He was a great friend and Brother-in-law, and we will miss him terribly. Please know that we are here for you no matter what. and that we love you more then you will ever know. Our thoughts a prayers are with you and we will always smile when we think of Zach.
Kelly Gausselin
August 6, 2007
Mary and family,
May God bless you and your children through this difficult time. Know that you are loved and supported by all who know you and Zach..
Peace.
Kelly & Bridget Weinberg
August 6, 2007
May God bring you comfort and peace through this difficult time.
August 4, 2007
MARY OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AT THIS TIME. WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOU IF THERE IS ANYTHING WE CAN DO PLEASE LET US KNOW. YOU ALL ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
JOE AND DENISE SANTANGELO
Chris Henderson
August 4, 2007
Mary and family - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Midori Van Belle
August 4, 2007
Thinking of you. I have only good memories of Zach. We attended SCS as well as St Joe together.
Andy & Anna Hartman
August 4, 2007
Mary,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Stay strong, God bless you.
Brooke
August 3, 2007
Ive worked with Zach and his father for the past year and couldn't have asked for a better family to be around. Zach had enough knowledge to fill the room and a smile to match. As a fellow Sox fan we always had something to chat about. You will be missed dearly
Jacqueline Mozrall
August 3, 2007
I am very saddened by the loss of Zach. Zach's smile, laugh, kindness, generosity, work ethic, and inquistive nature left a lasting impression on many faculty and staff here in Industrial Engineering at RIT. He touched many of us, and made RIT a brighter place! My thoughts and prayers are with Zach and his family.
Patty & Bill Bundy
August 2, 2007
Mary-We are Melany Mullens parents and we have held you close in our hearts for days. Melany described the moving service, strong support of your family and friends, and the tremendous sense of Zach's influence on so many people. We hope the coming days can bring you strength, rest and a sense of peace. With love---
Kris (Peterson) Bedock
August 2, 2007
Mary,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family through this difficult time.
Love,
Kris Don and Sons
Carleton Van Rensselaer
August 2, 2007
I miss Zach so much; all I want is one more road trip, ski trip, or even an arguement about the Cubs vs. the Sox. We had the greatest time together at RIT, and will treasure those memories for a lifetime. Over the past days with his incredible family, I realized how truely blessed he was; Mary is a beautiful and resilient wife and mother; Cameron and Emma are wonderful children that have the best extended family to lean on. I will be praying for you all.
Kim
August 2, 2007
I am so very sorry to hear about Zach's passing. We were always happy to see him stop into our office, he was a wonderful person to work with. It was sad to see him leave Buffalo.
My deepest sympathy to all of his family and friends - I cannot even imagine the loss you must feel. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Greg Eisensmith
August 2, 2007
Mary, Cam and Emma, Cheryl and I are very sorry for your loss, We wish you nothing but the best, Zach and I were friends at culver but we really were close in college and then in Buffalo, I'll miss going to the ND games and laughing with zach in the parking lot. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Solomon Oyeyemi
August 2, 2007
Fisrt I must say Zach was a true freind- We were in the same unit and had many days of laughing and fun- I remeber coming home with him during a Culver break and spending time with his family and freinds. He was a giving person and will always be missed. My family and I send love and prayers to your family during this time.
Rise In Peace!
Solomon Oyeyemi (CMA, BA. 92)
Chris Keegan
August 1, 2007
Though we lost contact after graduation, Zach was a member of my unit and a hockey mate at Culver. He was kind, insightful, and as frequently noted, always cheerful. Frankly, in the few years we knew each other, he taught me lessons on life I am only now learning. My prayers are with his wife, children, and family. (CMA '91)
Shawn Cunningham
August 1, 2007
Zach was my roommate at Culver during our senior year. I am extremely saddened at his passing. Words cannot describe my memories. May God bless his family. Fondly remembering the "glory days"
Carm Caterisano
August 1, 2007
Dear Mary, Cameron and Emma: My family and I feel so lucky to have had you as our neighbors. From the moment we met you, we fell in love ... with each one of you. Your kindness and warm spirit was infectious and for that reason, people were drawn to you. When you left Lancaster, we were so sad, but so thankful for having met you. Your visits were great and we look forward to those visits. Mary, you are an awesome mother and should be so proud of your two beautiful children. I'm sure Zach will be by your side as you raise Cameron and Emma. Zach always made us feel like he was so genuinely happy to see us. We will always remember his great smile and easy going ways. He is an angel with God now and I know he is looking down on you all with immense love. He will be truly missed.
Deon (Alstott) Lyday
August 1, 2007
Mary,
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. No words I can write will ease the pain..but know that you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. May God Bless you and your children in ways that will comfort you in the weeks and months to come. Stay strong....
David Moran
August 1, 2007
Zach
GodBless you, I will miss you my friend.........
I love going to the ND Football games with you and your family,I will always remember the great laughs we had and the great friendships we made together,
I will always keep you and your family in my heart.......
Heidi and Tim Trenerry
August 1, 2007
May God give you the strength to get through this difficult time. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Pepe, Michelle, Joseph and Andrew
August 1, 2007
Zach, what a cool dude!! Though we only knew you a few years we feel blessed to have you, Mary, Cam and Emma touch our lives and make an impression in our hearts that will last a lifetime. Playing guitar with Stevie and we all singing to Hootie's "Hold my Hand" and U2's "All I Want Is You" sums up how we all feel.
with love and prayers
Bob Werner
August 1, 2007
Zach was a warm and thoughtful person, and a truly professional man. It was an honor and a privilege to have known him and worked with him. He will live on in our hearts and minds. Deepest sympathies to his family and friends on his untimely loss.
Kelli Feeser (Mumaw)
August 1, 2007
Mary, I don't know if you remember me but when I heard about Zach I felt I had to say something. I am so sorry for your loss and I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Be strong for your children, they will need you and may God be with you all to help in your time of need.
Vic Kasznia
August 1, 2007
Mary,
Danielle and I were saddened by the news about Zach. I pray that the Lord sends the Holy Spirit to you and your family to give you peace, confort and strength. We'll keep you all in our prayers in the coming days.
God Bless you all,
Vic & Danielle Kasznia and Family
Sarah Shelton
August 1, 2007
Mary - I am so saddened for you and your entire family. Zach was such a wonderful guy who will be very missed. My prayers are with all of you.
JOHN & JANE JOOSSENS
August 1, 2007
OUR SINCERE CONDOLANCES
Paul Joubert
August 1, 2007
A pleasure to coach, as his smile would light up the locker room, this is my framed memory of Zach, from bantam and high school years.
More recently at a few lunches, his smile was a reflection of how he felt about his wife and children, as he proudly and intensely, spoke of them.
You will be missed, Zach.
Tammie Wrenn ( Boyer)
August 1, 2007
Mary, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I too lost my husband this past July 10th 2007. I truely know the sorrow you feel in your heart. If you ever want to talk please contact me. It is a very hard road ahead, I know. But you will have the love and support of your family and friends to help guide you. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Kern Q. Snellgrove IV
August 1, 2007
Zach was a gifted hockey player who could have played in the NHL. He would have been a star like Wayne Gretzky, he was that good. He chose to use his brain instead of a stick and became a great engineer. Then he became a great husband and father. Now he is a great angel in Heaven.
Trent Melton
August 1, 2007
Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt prayers to the Gallagher family. Zach was a tremendously generous and thoughtful person whose laughter and smile will always be fondly remembered. The Melton Family, CMA '91
Eric DeCraene
August 1, 2007
Only good memories of Zach. I wish you the best through this difficult time.
Anonymous
August 1, 2007
Zach your sister Ellie has told me so much about you and how she misses you I can only hope you know how much she loves you...you will be missed by many...as for your family my deepest sympathies go out to you and I hope that you can all becoming stronger people after such a tragedy.
Katie Jones
July 31, 2007
Mary,
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Cameron, Emma and everyone who loved Zach. I know that God will be with you for strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time. With love and many prayers.
Chuck Shields
July 31, 2007
Mary, Cameron and Emma,
Our hearts are with you. Cameron - anytime you are craving my "infamous" meatballs marinara, you let me know - I'm there for you buddy. Uncle Chuck and the Shields family.
Scott Lindborg
July 31, 2007
Zach will be missed. May God watch over your children and bring peace to your lives.
The McNamer Family
July 31, 2007
We are saddened by the loss for your entire family. Please take comfort in knowing that so many people are praying for your family. The love that Zach had for Mary, Cameron, Emma and his entire family will be with you forever. May God be with each and everyone of you during this time of your tragic loss.
Mike Connaughton
July 31, 2007
Mary,
May the Lord and Angels above be with you and your children.
Nan Pinter McCartney
July 31, 2007
My most heart-felt sympathies to all of the family members who bear this tremendous loss. May you find comfort in your memories and peace in your hearts as you remember all the joy and happiness that Zach brought into your lives'. May God bless you and keep you in your time of sorrow.
Katie Schultz Haggestad
July 31, 2007
Mary and Family,
Our hearts go out to you. You will be in our prayers!
The Schultz Family
Tom and Jayne Travis
July 31, 2007
We may not understanding why sad things happen, may it somehow help to know how much we care. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Meghan Miller
July 31, 2007
Dear Mary,
I am very saddened for your loss. Zach was a smart, talented, funny, good looking man and I am very blessed to have known him. I wish you and your family great strength during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Cameron and Emma.
Warmest sympathies,
Meghan (Yokom) Miller
Andi Balland
July 31, 2007
It seems like just yesterday that Zach and Cam were in our wedding with those big goofy grins! Tom and I will always cherish the memories we have of spending time with you in Buffalo. Mary, you're in our thoughts and prayers as you, Cam and Emma get through this difficult time. We love you and hope you know we're there for you guys if ever need anything.
The Hurst Family
July 31, 2007
Mary and Family,
Your families love, faith and strength will get you through this difficult time. Know our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jeremy Weinberg
July 31, 2007
My condolences to Zach's family and all that knew him. May you find comfort in your fond memories of him.
Jamie Spencer
July 31, 2007
I was a friend and teammate of Zach's at Culver Military Academy and remember him most for his smile and contagious laugh. I pray that he has found peace and that God bless his family during this time of adversity. May we remember the good times and honor Zach by celebrating them in thought and conversation.
George Lund
July 31, 2007
Mary, I am deeply saddened with your loss. I enjoyed both teaching and coaching Zach and was most pleased to be able to work with his son, Cameron. My family will keep Zach and your family in our prayers. Mark and Lynn, I will also keep you in our prayers.
Trenton Smith
July 31, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you Mary!
Stephen E. Jaworski Sr.
July 31, 2007
Mr. Zachary C. Gallagher was the best man at our daughter Laura's wedding in Culver Chapel thirteen years ago. Unfortunately, we never crossed paths again after that warm April day but I will always fondly remember Zach as an articulate, intelligent and charismatic young man filled with a zest for life. Watching Laura's wedding video this morning made me realize once again that the world was a better place with Mr. Gallagher in it. Now Heaven is that much richer. May God Bless you and your children, Mary, and may He shepherd you through this test of your Catholic faith.
michael Bieganski family
July 31, 2007
You touched our lives in so many ways. You will be missed.
Mark Gallagher
July 31, 2007
I lost my son over this week end. I pray my son is in Heaven with our Almighty God, Creator of the Universe. I love my son dearly and he leaves behind his beautiful wife Mary and two lovely children, Cameron and Emma Kate. It is with much sadness that Zach has crossed to the other side to be with our Lord. I know with the help of our Savior Jesus Christ the rest of my children and family will be able to go on. May the rest of my days on this earth be one of serving our Lord and knowing Zach did his best not only as a father but as a caring son who could always find the best birthday cards for his Dad. God bless you Zach for you will always be in my heart.
Jim & Paula Thompson
July 31, 2007
Mary,
Our thoughts & prayers are with you and your family. Anyone who had the honor to know Zach were touched forever. He was truly a unique and special man.
With Sympathy, Jim & Paula
Dax Mitchell CMA '92
July 31, 2007
I met Zach at Culver Military Academy as a classmate. Although I did not know Zach very well, I am saddened by his passing. My condolences go out to his friends and family.
Katherine Schneider, Culver 1992
July 31, 2007
Zach was a bright light on the Culver campus and was loved by his friends and teammates. He kept everyone laughing.
I am praying for peace in the hearts of all who love him, especially his family.
God bless you all.
Katherine Schneider, Culver 1992
Clark Gallagher
July 31, 2007
I always looked up to my big brother Zach, in everyway. I might not of been as close to him as i wanted but he was always there for me in time of need. He supported me when i had trouble or just needed to talk, I love him and miss him soo much!
Clark Gallagher
July 31, 2007
I always looked up to my big brother Zach, in everyway. I might not of been as close to him as i wanted but he was always there for me in time of need. He supported me when i had trouble or just needed to talk, I love him and miss him soo much!
Justine Anderson - Blad
July 31, 2007
Mary,
Our entire family is so upset by this loss. We will continue to offer our never ending love and support to you and your children. Zack was loved by everyone; my father, sister, nieces and nephew. My husband and Zack went to Stanley Clark together.
We are fortuate to have shared the 4th of July with you and Zack at the lake a few weeks ago, we have so many happy memories that will never be forgotten.
Having known you all my life Mary, I want to remind you, you are a strong person and a beautiful mother. The road ahead will not be easy but we are going to be there for you, Cam and Emma.
We will always be there for you.
We Love You Mary,
Justine Anderson-Blad
James Popa CMA '92
July 31, 2007
While it has been sometime since I have seen Zach, he was a great teammate, and friend. He was always quick with a joke and very outgoing. When I think of him he always has a smile on his face. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. God’s speed my friend.
Rachel Cocquyt
July 31, 2007
Dear Mary, The loss of someone you love is the hardest to except. Know that you will be surrounded by SO many that love you and Zach. Keep the cherished memories close to your heart and hope they will ease the sorrow within your heart. We are praying for you, Cameron, Emma and your family.
Much Love, John & Rachel Cocquyt
Linda, Carl, and Kay Klenke
July 31, 2007
I watched Zach grow up from a tiny boy to a handsome young man. Every memory I have of him is upbeat and positive. My parents and I will miss him so deeply. We wish we could have had more wonderful memories of him. Our prayers and love are with you.
Brian Miller
July 31, 2007
I met Zach a few times through a dear friend and thought him a fine young man. My thoughts and prayers are with Mary, Cameron, Emma and my friend.
Brian Thorn
July 31, 2007
Zach was one of the true "good guys" to graduate from our program. I most remember him for his quick smile, his ready wit, and his intellectual curiosity. He was one of a kind and we'll miss him.
Benjamin Yoder
July 31, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to Zach's family and friends. Zach had a tremendous personality and was always a joy to be around as he had a great sense of humor. May God Bless him and his family.
warmest regards,
Benjamin Yoder Culver class of 92
louise and Steve anella
July 31, 2007
Our prayers are with the entire family. May God bring all of you peace.
Kelly Hurley
July 31, 2007
Mary, I have lots of fond memories of Zach throughout our highschool years. He is an extremely funny guy with an outstanding personality. I know he will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. With deepest sympathy, Kelly Hurley
Bill Hambling
July 31, 2007
My thoughts, prayers and remorse are with all of you. I fondly remember Zac and the joys of his life, and the joy he brought to others. I pray that those of us left behind will find peace within and remember the gifts that Zac gave us as a child, brother, friend, husband and father. Go in peace my son fully knowing that you are loved and will be missed.
Ellie Gallagher
July 31, 2007
I love you Zach...I will miss you...
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