ROBERT JOSEPH GALLAGHER

Captain Robert Joseph Gallagher, 72, of Alpena, passed away Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Besser Senior Living Community surrounded by his family.

Robert was born in St. Ignace on Jan. 19, 1952, to the late Daniel and Scharline (Sutton) Gallagher. Robert graduated from Alpena Catholic Central in 1970 and began his career with American Steamship Company aboard the M/V Nicolet as a watchman. He was promoted to third mate while on board the Str. McKee Sons in 1974. On Jan. 27, 1979, he married Judith Charles. Bob obtained his Captain license in 1981, achieving Outstanding Mariner in 1998. He was a well-respected Captain of the Great Lakes, oftentimes leaned on by other captains for advice or to come on board for difficult maneuvers. Bob served as the chairman of the board for the Safety and Navigation Board for the Great Lakes. He retired after a 44-year career. He was also a member of the Dusk til Dawn Hunt Preserve hunting camp.

Surviving are his wife, Judy; four children, Scott (Kristie) Gallagher, Michelle (John) Mainville, Kathleen (Tim) Davis, Jessica (Jim) McEwen; Grandchildren Robert (Kendra), Tyler, Alex (Jess), Brooke (Tyler), Megan, Jennifer, Nick, Jacob, Kyle, Caleb, Camden; Great-grandchildren Jordan, Aiden, Aili, Lilianna, Addy, Isabel, Emma. Siblings Mike (Adele) Gallagher, Danny (Dona) Gallagher, MaryAnn (Robert) Wcisel, David (Ronda) Gallagher; Sister-in-law Cindy Gallagher; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Captain Gallagher was preceded in death by his siblings, Charles Gallagher, Patrick Gallagher, Ronald Gallagher, and Diane Kruse.

Mass of Christian Burial for brothers Robert and Charles will be held at St. Bernard Church of All Saints Parish on Saturday, Aug. 10, at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Aloysius Okpala officiating followed by a graveside service for Robert at Holy Cross Cemetery. Celebration of Life for both Robert and Charles will follow at Grand Lake Resort.

A joint graveside service will also take place Sunday, Aug. 11, at 2 p.m. at St. Ignatius Loyala Catholic Cemetery, St. Ignace. Cremation arrangements have been handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.

Inurnment: Holy Cross Cemetery

Memorials: St Jude Children’s Hospital