Obituary

James E. Jim Gallagher, 90, passed away after a long illness on Thursday, August 19th at the Palm Terrace Healthcare Center in Laguna Woods, CA.

Jim was born in Chester, PA on January 26, 1920, of parents Edward C. and Mary Elizabeth Gallagher. He was the oldest of four children. After graduation from high school he went on to attend LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA, having been admitted there on a Public Speaking scholarship. While there he also competed on the Varsity Ice Hockey team. Jim graduated from LaSalle in June 1942.

Upon graduation he enlisted in the US Marine Corps and was sent to Quantico, VA for Officer Training School. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and was assigned to a Marine Engineering Unit. He participated in the landing at Guadalcanal and many other islands throughout the South Pacific. He finished his World War II duty in San Francisco, CA but continued his life long commitment to the Marines while serving in the USMC Reserves. He was again called to active duty during the Korean War. Jim attained the rank of Colonel.

He met his wife, Renee B. Cortese in San Francisco. They were married at St. MaryÃÅ ¼s Catholic church on January 12, 1946. Jim and Renee had three children, Edward, Jamie, and Lori. He also attended the University of San Francisco Law School in the evenings, earning his Law Degree in 1950. Jim went on to pursue successful careers in Insurance and Law.

Jim is survived by his wife of 64 years, Renee, his three children, Edward, Jamie, and Lori, his two grandchildren, Steve and Jill, and his two great-grandchildren Emma and Audrey. He is also survived by two of his sisters, Patricia and Dolores.

Jim’s sister Janette preceded him in death.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, September 22th at 1pm at the O’Connor Laguna Hills Mortuary. A reception to follow at the family residence.