Patricia Gallagher

Born on October 4, 1941, in Sagola, Michigan, Pat was the daughter of Joseph Deal and Hazel Roberts. A graduate of Escanaba High School, she married the love of her life, James F. Gallagher, on August 8, 1964, at St. Patrick’s Church. In 1994, the couple shared a beautiful milestone by renewing their vows on Beaver Island, their favorite family getaway.

Pat’s work ethic was evident from her early years at the Ranch House Restaurant and Birdseye Veneer Company. She later dedicated herself to raising her children, a role she cherished above all else. Once her children were grown, she returned to the workforce at Besse Forest Products, where she worked from 1986 until her retirement in 2001, forging many lifelong friendships.

A woman of deep and quiet faith, Pat was a longtime member of St. Charles Church in Rapid River and later St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Escanaba. She embodied the values of compassion and love in every aspect of her life.

In her younger years, Patricia was an active and social spirit. She played dartball for over 20 years, a time during which she made many lasting friendships. Her children fondly remember the mornings after her games, as she would always return with “goodies” for them to enjoy. Beyond dartball, she also enjoyed playing softball and bowled for the Besse Forest Products team.

Following her retirement in 2001, Patricia dedicated herself to her family and friends. She traveled extensively with her children and their families, making memories at Beaver Island, Chicago, Detroit, Mackinac Island, Washington Island, and Door County.

At home at the West Highland Apartments, she cherished the company of her friends, with whom she enjoyed bingo, dinners, movies, and working on puzzles in the lounge. An avid reader, she particularly enjoyed the novels by Stephen King. She also kept a close eye on the news and remained a loyal, lifelong fan of the New York Yankees; one of her fondest moments was the opportunity to attend a Yankees game in person with her family.

Patricia will be remembered as a woman of immense strength, kindness, and selflessness. A protective and easy-going soul, she lived by the mantra, “Just try to get along in this world,” always putting the needs of others before her own. No matter the circumstances, she always made time to offer a listening ear or a helping hand to anyone in need.

Her family was the center of her world, and she possessed a fierce, unwavering love for her children, grandchildren, and friends. Deeply sentimental, Patricia treasured every piece of artwork created by her grandchildren and loved recounting stories of the “good old days.” One of her favorite memories to share was riding a bus across the Mackinac Bridge the day before it

officially opened to the public–a story she punctuated by reciting the specific verse she had memorized in school about the bridge decades prior.

Patricia’s mischievous sense of humor and “kid at heart” nature brought light to every family gathering. Whether she was playing “ghost” with her sister to entertain the family or laughing at the antics on the Ozzy Osbourne show, her spirit was vibrant and infectious. She lived life to the fullest, finding her greatest joy in playing with her grandchildren and making lasting memories with those she loved more than life itself.

She is reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, James F. Gallagher.

Pat is survived by her children, Cindy (Philip) Carlson of Escanaba and James D. (Sarah) Gallagher of Northville; her cherished grandchildren, Jacob Vader, and Keira and Teagan Gallagher; her siblings, Mary (Allan Blahnik) Roberts, Ray (Kathy) Juetten, and Francis (Judy) Roberts; and many nieces and nephews.

Patricia was preceded in death by her husband: James F. Gallagher; mother, Hazel Roberts; father, Joseph Deal; sister, Evelyn Leduc; brothers, Robert Stone and James Wahl.

To honor Pat’s love for color and her vibrant outlook on life, the family kindly invites attendees to incorporate a splash of color into their attire for the services.

Patricia’s presence will be deeply missed, though her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched. Her family and friends will forever remember her not just through her words, but through the quiet, selfless actions that served as a constant reminder of her profound love for them.

Visitation: Friday, January 16, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba.

Mass of Christian Burial: 3:00 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, officiated by Rev. Rick Courier.

Luncheon: To follow at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Wells.

Burial: Gardens of Rest Cemetery on Saturday, January 17 at 10am.

A message of condolence may be directed to the Gallagher family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.