John Gallagher

Gallagher, John P. Portage Age 80, was called home to the Lord early Tuesday morning, April 27, 2021. John was born in Newark, NJ, on November 9, 1940, the son of Patrick John and Regina (McGarry) Gallagher. John proudly served his nation in the United States Army. On October 31, 1964, he married Karen Williams who survives him. He had a career in law enforcement in New Jersey before coming to West Michigan and working as a police officer with the City of Portage, beginning in 1966. He retired as a Lieutenant in 1997. John and Karen enjoyed playing golf. They are active members of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. He was an avid reader. Nothing was more important to him than his family, and he was a devoted husband, dad, "pop pop" and "papa." Besides his wife he is survived by his children, Jeff (Chris) Gallagher of Westminster, SC and Jill (Shawn) McManus of Holland; grandchildren, Kylee, Megan, Patrick, Brendan and Reagan; siblings, Dennis Gallagher, and Eileen Ellam; several nieces and nephews; and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Maureen Thomson. A service to celebrate John's life and faith will be held on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. in the rear parking lot at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 1747 W. Milham Rd. Portage, with Pastor Tom Pederson officiating. Friends may call on the family for 2 hours prior to the service beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday also on the church's rear parking lot. John will be laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in a private service with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, c/o the funeral home. Friends and family may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.