It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Edward Gallagher, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who left this world on January 1, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on February 23, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, John was the cherished son of Patrick and Nora Gallagher, who preceded him in death.
John spent his early years in Chicago, where he developed a love for learning and a passion for history. He graduated from Leo High School in 1964. He continued his education at DePaul University, where he graduated in 1968 with a bachelor’s in history. During his time at DePaul, he formed lifelong friendships with his fraternity brothers, who became an integral part of his life.
In September 1983, John married Maureen Gallagher (nee Lauer), and they were married for 41 years until his death. Together, they raised a beautiful family, which includes their beloved children: Ryan (Danielle Fox) Gallagher and Colleen (Travis) Walker as well as their cherished grandchildren: Aiden and Nora Walker, and his beloved dog Ginger.
John was known for his sense of humor and his loyalty to friends and family. Throughout his life, he actively participated in various organizations, leaving a lasting impact on those around him. His commitment to his fraternity brothers at DePaul exemplified his loyalty and camaraderie.
His family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care he received from the doctors, nurses, and staff at IU Health University Hospital.
John's legacy will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind: his wife Maureen, his children Ryan and Colleen, and their families, as well as countless friends and neighbors who were touched by his kindness.
A public visitation celebrating John’s life will be held at 1 PM on Friday January 10, 2025, at Midwest Funeral Home located at 1415 W. Coliseum Blvd Fort Wayne, IN 46808. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Humane Fort Wayne.
As we say goodbye to John Edward Gallagher, we remember him not just for his accomplishments but for the love he shared.
Guestbook
John was a friend whom I had many happy memories of. May he rest in Peace. My prayers are with John and his family.
John Klish sends their condolences.
Randy & Maureen planted 3 trees for John.
Please accept my deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband, father, grandfather, and my friend. He was quite a character. He worked very hard all of his life and his best day was the day he married Maureen. I am proud to have known him him. Byron Bradley
John, may you rest in peace. John McHugh
Colleen planted a tree for John.
John and I were fraternity brothers since we were both 18 years old. Some of our exploits were legendary and some best left unshared. We all had our ration of fun and foolishness and probably two other helpings besides. We will all miss him and we extend our deepest condolences to Maureen and really rest of the family. May he rest in peace. Clark Justice
As another one of Jack’s fraternity brothers from DePaul University, I fondly remember Jack as the inspiration for the founding of Accucraft Consolidated Industries, Incorporated- an entrepreneurial endeavor of lifetime friends. John - we’ll miss you
Send our love and condolences to Mom and to you kids.
How.s M0m doing send our love and condolences to her.
John was a good business partner we had many ups and downs.I remember the good times and forgot the bad. Sorry for your loss he was so proud of Y0u and Ryan and loved your Mom.
ed snyder sends their condolences.
Thank you all for the condolences. I have updated with the appropriate information.
Jack and I met at DePaul U. in 1964, and soon became fraternity brothers and then lifelong friends. He was kind, honest and full of the best sort of humor. I will miss him.
My deepest sympathies to John's family We were Fraternity Brothers at DePaul May He Rest in Peace Jim McLamore
Jim McLamore sends their condolences.