Leo Andrew Gallagher

Leo Andrew Gallagher, 91, of Long Beach, CA, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on December 31, 2019. Leo was born to James and Blanche (Paulsen) Gallagher on July 5, 1928, in Onaka, SD. Leo moved to Long Beach, CA in December 1941. He graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School in 1946, Long Beach City College in 1948, and University of California, Berkeley in 1951. He spent four years in the ROTC and was a bursar in the United States Navy from 1952-1954. He joined the Long Beach Fire Department in September 1954. He retired in January 1983 after achieving the rank of Deputy Fire Chief.

Leo married the love of his life, Eileen Gallagher, on November 20, 1954. They celebrated 61 years of marriage before her passing in March 2016. He is survived by his daughter, Cheryl Gallagher; daughter Jeanne Kuhn and husband Thomas Brent Kuhn; and son, David Gallagher. He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Christopher, Matthew, Kimberly, Bethany, Anna and Marissa, and great-grandchild Samantha.

Leo loved to travel. He went to almost every state of the United States, as well as, Mexico, Puerto Rico, New Zealand, Fiji, China, Egypt, Israel, Panama, Costa Rica and many Caribbean Islands. He spent numerous summers fishing in Alaska with family and friends.

Leo was a man who lived by his faith and taught his children to always do their best in everything they do. He was a long-time member of the Exchange Club of Long Beach. He enjoyed going to concerts, golfing, bowling, fishing and spending time with his family. He had a very positive attitude with a kind word and smile for everyone he saw.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Father Al’s Outreach Inc, 6246 Crystal Cove, Long Beach, CA 90808, or the Exchange Club of Long Beach, 3014 Nipomo Av, Long Beach, CA 90808.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401