Robert “Bob” Joseph Gallagher, age 76, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family at the St. Dominica Villa. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Hazel Green, WI, on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 11 AM. Family and friends may call after 9 AM at the church until the time of the service. All are welcome to join in honoring Bob’s life and legacy. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, in Galena, IL, is assisting the family with services.

Born in Dubuque, IA, to Margaret and James Gallagher, Bob grew up in Dubuque and later moved to Galena after marrying the love of his life, Connie Heller. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised six children: Brian Gallagher, Gina (Chuck) Blasen, Kevin (Kathy) Gallagher, James (Heather) Gallagher, Mike (Janet) Gallagher, and David Gallagher. He was a proud grandfather to Logan, Raine, Julia, Jack, Sawyer, Maverick, Farrah, Raylan, Sydney, and Kramer Gallagher; Maggie, William, and Thomas Blasen; and two recently added bonus grandchildren, Emily Schroeder and Ayden Schwartz.

Bob’s career was dedicated to helping others. He began his work in social services and served countless children through his work at Keystone Area Education Agency, where his compassion and commitment made a lasting impact.

Bob was a lifelong fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers. His favorite pastimes included camping, relaxing at the beach during family vacations, and attending his grandchildren’s many activities. One of the most cherished moments of Bob’s life was a recent family vacation to Table Rock Lake, MO, where he was surrounded by all his children and grandchildren. It was a celebration of love, laughter, and togetherness—everything Bob valued most.

Since 2014, Bob has lived with renewed health and gratitude thanks to a life-saving kidney donation from his brother, Tom Gallagher. These past 11 years were a true gift—bonus years filled with memories, milestones, and deep appreciation. The Bob Gallagher family is forever grateful to Uncle Tom for his selfless act of love.

In addition to his immediate family, Bob is also survived by his siblings: Patrick Gallagher, Jeanne (Bill) Breitbach, Tom (Cindy) Gallagher, Katie (Doug) Bailey, and his sister-in-law, Kris Gallagher. He is also survived by his in-laws: Glen (Diane) Heller, Jerry (Ann) Heller, Kenny Heller, Jane (Dave) McCartney, Betty (Dan) Wubben, Terry (Jeanne) Heller, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and James Gallagher; his in-laws, Harry and Teresa Heller; his brother, Tim Gallagher; his sisters-in-law, Eileen Gallagher and Laurie Theill; his brother-in-law, David Runde; his niece, Lindsay Wubben; his nephew, Eric Heller; and his great-nephews, Brady Heller and Henry Heller.

Online condolences may be left for the family at  www.furlongfuneralchapel.com