Bernard M. “Bernie” Gallagher, age 80, of Marion, died Tuesday afternoon, August 12, 2014, at the Marion General Hospital, with his loving wife by his side following an arduous battle with cancer.
On June 10, 1934, Bernard was born in Radnor, Ohio, the only child of Bernard “Ben” Sr. and Marguerite (Wright) Gallagher Miley. Losing his father at a very young age, he and his mother moved around until they found a home in Marion, when he was 15 years old. He graduated from Marion Harding High School in the Class of 1952.
Shortly after graduating high school, Bernard married his high school sweetheart, his one true love, Sandra Denton, eloping on August 13, 1952. They were just one day shy of celebrating their 62 wedding anniversary.
For over 50 years, Bernard was proud to serve the Marion community as a State Farm Insurance Agent. For 37 of those years, he enjoyed having his wife Sandra there helping him answer the phones and stay on top of all of the paperwork. Being an insurance agent was truly his life’s passion, as he loved taking care of the needs of his clients, which were more like friends to him. He also had a remarkable memory of most every car he ever insured, and could still remember the car your father drove in the 1950’s.
Having a huge heart for pets, Bernard saved 100’s of animals over the past 60 years, even saving a goat once. In his car, he always had cat food and a leash, just in case they came across a cat or dog in need of a home. He and Sandra had countless pets together, as they brought many of their strays at home with them. For several years, he also served on the Marion Area Humane Society board.
Taking pride in everything he owned, Bernard thoroughly enjoyed working in the yard at home, which he often referred to as “therapy” for him. He also was meticulous with how he cared for his cars and his extensive tool collection.
With a thirst for knowledge, Bernard was always reading the newspaper, magazines, and books of all varieties. He also enjoyed putting together puzzles.
A “good” man in every way, Bernard never judged anyone and could see the best in everyone.
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Sandra Gallagher of Marion; his daughter, Kimmerly Gallagher of Westbrook, Maine; and his granddaughter, Shannon Badgett of South Portland, Maine.
Per Bernard’s wishes, services will not be observed.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wyandot County Humane Society, 9640 County Highway 330, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351 (http://www.wyhumane.org/) and the Marion Area Humane Society, 2264 Richland Road, Marion, OH 43302 (http://mahspets.org/).
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Bernie’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
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