Obituary of Patricia Gallagher

Patricia M. Gallagher, 83, of Niles, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 22, 2012, at Brentwood Assisted Living, surrounded by her family. She was born on January 23, 1929 in Lansing, Michigan she was raised by the late Clarence E. and Mildred Georgia (Purchis) Mater. At a ceremony in South Bend, Indiana on January 25, 1949 she wed the man who had captured her heart, William R. Gallagher, who she met while attending WMU. Pat studied music while attending Western Michigan University and was an accomplished musician. During this time she also taught ballroom dancing at a local Arthur Murray Dance Studio. Pat was a reporter for many years for the Niles Daily Star, winning many awards for her reporting. Pat also was an active board member for the Niles City Council and loved serving the city and residents for over twenty four years. Pat not only served the voters, but she had a special place in her heart for animals and is accredited for much of the city ordinances for the protection of animals. She will be remembered for being a gracious and wonderful lady. Who always brought a smile to everyone she met. She was also a member of the Niles Garden Club, Ladies' Reading Club, Support the Fort St. Joseph Society, Landscape Critics and First Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed gardening, playing cards with friends and enjoyed dancing. Her and Bill also loved spending their Friday evenings with friends (Rowdy Bunch). She had a great sense of wit and humor and an eye for decorating. Pat will be dearly missed by all the lives she has touched. She is survived by a sister Priscilla "Peg" McColgan of Leesburg, Florida, two daughters, Deborah (David Miller) Gallagher of Cedar Hill, Mo and Tara Gallagher of Niles. She is also survived by her two grandsons Brandon Gritton and Liam Gritton. In keeping with Pat's wishes the family is planning to "celebrate her life" at Orchard Hills Country Club in Buchanan, MI on December 16th at 1:00. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Pat may do so to Fernwood Botanical Gardens and Nature Preserve 13988 Range Line Road Niles, Michigan 49120