Obituary of William R. Gallagher

William R. Gallagher, 86, of Niles passed to his rest on October 5, 2012 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born to the late John Alvin and Hazel Olivia (Anderson) Gallagher in Niles on November 21, 1925. After high school William enlisted in the Navy where he served three years and earned his ranking of 2nd Class Petty Officer aboard the USS Sanborn. He then continued his education at Western Michigan University where he earned his bachelors degree a double major in History and Philosophy with a double minor in Psychology and Sociology. At a ceremony in South Bend, Indiana on January 25, 1949 he wed the woman who had captured his heart, Patricia Adell Mater of Nashville, Mi who he met while attending WMU. William, always a hardworking man started his sales career with Tyler Refrigeration of Niles. Then in 1961 started and co-owned Perficold Inc. for 30 years in South Bend. Then in 1984 Bill once again started another company within the Niles Incubator, White Water Ice. Later his love for the game then sent him to Knollwood Country Club in Granger where he worked as a grounds keeper. Never tiring Bill finished out his sales career selling for American Green Technology located in South Bend. Bill also served on the board of Public Utilities for the city of Niles for 30 plus years. Bill was always looking for ways to help improve the city of Niles. He truly loved this town and always wanted the best for the city and its residents. When he wasn't busy working one of Bill's strongest passions was reading. He felt that it was important for everyone to make the time to read. He also enjoyed listening to music, working in his yard and always a good game of golf. Preceding William are his parents and his brother James B. Gallagher. He is survived by his wife Pat Gallagher of Niles, sister Marilyn Catt of Sandpointe, Id, two daughters, Deborah (David Miller) Gallagher of Cedar Hill, Mo and Tara Gallagher of Niles. He is also survived by his two grandsons Brandon Gritton and Liam Gritton. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of William may do so to the Salvation Army or the Niles Public Library.