U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War

Published November 13, 2019

MELROSE — Richard L. (”Dick”) Gallagher, 73, of Melrose, passed away on November 7, 2019.

Mr. Gallagher is survived by his devoted wife Stella Gallagher of Melrose, his loving son Keith Gallagher and wife Mindy of Wakefield, his late loving son Donald (”Donny”) Gallagher, his sisters Joan and husband Marty Grella of Venice, Florida, Linda and husband Larry Hyde of Lynn, and his late brother Robert Gallagher. He was also survived by many nieces, nephews, friends and his two cats Monty and Midnight.

Dick was a loving husband and father. His family came first. He was a man who showed strength in every aspect of his life. He was a hard worker, skilled welder, and did all phases of iron working before he retired from the Iron Workers Local 7 Boston in 2007. Dick also served his country with pride in the 4th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

Dick was a good-hearted man who loved his family and cats. He was a fighter and never showed weakness when life threw curve balls. He was a proud Irishmen who took joy in the simple things in life. Dick took care of his family and his family took care of him. He is with his son Donny now and they are both angels watching over all of us.

Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose, on Tuesday, November 12, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s Church, 9 Herbert St. Melrose. Interment with military honors at Lakeside Cemetery in Wakefield followed. To leave an online message of condolence please visit gatelyfh.com.