James "Jim" J. Gallagher

age 75, of Munster, IN, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving wife on Wednesday, October 19, 2022. He was the youngest son of the late James G. and Irene Gallagher. Jim was born and raised in Evergreen Park, Illinois.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Jane Gallagher; children, Robert Costa, Erin (Ryan) Longdin, Colleen (Jason) Schiller and James P. Gallagher; grandchildren, Liam, Leah, Garrett, Claire and Isabella; precious nieces, Peggy (Ben) Heinstra, Kimberly Gallagher, Dawn (William) Shaughnessy, Laurie (Eric) Pruente, Jennifer Schuette; many great nephews and nieces and many dear life long friends. Preceded by his siblings Margaret LaJoice, Gene Gallagher, Dale Gallagher and Karen Puckeris.

Jim served in the United States Army in Germany. He was a member of American Legion Post #854 in Evergreen Park, IL. After his return Jim worked for Continental Transport with pride making sure his passengers were safe and had an enjoyable experience.

In early 1986, while working for New York Carpet World in Calumet City, IL. Jim met and married the love of his life Jane. They lived in Oak Lawn, IL and moved to Munster Indiana, where they have resided since 1988.

Jim enjoyed supporting and attending The Performing Arts Center, where he was a season ticket holder for years and a long time supporter of The Towle Theater in Hammond, IN. Jim also enjoyed many excursions with the Town of Munster. Jim loved his trips to Mackinac Island, where he toured the entire length of the island with his cousin Jerry Pond and dear friend Lenny Barrett. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan always felt like home to him.

Jim was also a devoted NASCAR Fan. Jim got a chance to live his dream when his wife Jane gifted him a chance to drive 8 laps around the Indianapolis Speedway as a stock car driver, a surprise Christmas present.

Jim's Irish warm heart and sense of humor filled up a room with laughter. He connected and showed love and affection with everyone he met, especially with the special needs adults at Bethshan Services in Palos Heights, IL where his son Robert resides. The residents all responded to his genuine connection when he danced with the residents at the holiday parties, and his true connection with Bobbie melted Jane's heart.

The things that gave Jim the most happiness were spending time with family. He looked forward to holidays and his ham was legendary.

Full of life, Jim brought smiles to everyone that crossed his path. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend that will be dearly missed by all who cherished him.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Bethshan Services in Palos Heights, IL or Northern Michigan Animal Rescue Network in Topinabee, MI or Capital Campaign Fund for William J. Riley Residence /Hospice of Calumet Area Munster, IN would be appreciated.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Maria Goretti Church, 500 Northgate Dr. Dyer, IN on Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at 10:00 AM with Rev. Charles W. Niblick officiating. Friends may visit with the family on Wednesday morning from 9:00 AM until time of service. Jim will be laid to rest at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery at a later date. Solan Pruzin Funeral Home entrusted with services.