Obituary of Michael Gallagher

Michael Kevin Gallagher 43 a resident of Barrow, Alaska and formerly of State College died unexpectedly on Thursday, January 17, 2013 at Samuel Simmonds Memorial Hospital in Barrow, Alaska. Born March 13, 1969 in Bellefonte he was the son of Frank E. Gallagher Jr. who preceded him in death and June McGill Gallagher who survives of State College. Also surviving are his partner, Erika Green and his son Finnean Michael Gallagher of Barrow, Alaska, One sister Wendy M. Corl and her husband Ronald of State College and a brother Frank E. Gallagher III and his wife Jennifer of State College. Michael was an Eagle Scout, a 1987 graduate of State College Area High School and attended Penn State and Bloomsburg Universities. Michael was employed in Barrow, Alaska by the North Slope Borough as a Counselor. He ran the Community Center providing programs and support for the population of Barrow. He had a wonderful sense of humor. He was always joking with friends and knew just what to say to make a serious situation less serious. Together, he and his brother, Frank were always the "life of the party" at gatherings. When he came home to State College, he enjoyed hanging with friends, family and spending time with his 6 Nephews: Frank, Nick, Joshua Gallagher, Joshua and Kyle Catral, and Roman Corl and his niece: Megan Gallagher. He loved to play the latest Video and Computer games. Michael was a "Free Spirit". He traveled across the United States living in various states and eventually settled in Alaska. He loved the wilderness and being outdoors. He shared his love of nature and biology with those who would listen. He loved his son, Finn and vowed always to be close by to help to raise him. He leaves behind many friends and extended family. He will greatly be missed by everyone for his smiling face and sense of humor. A Memorial Service for Michael was held in Barrow, Alaska on Sunday January 20, 2013 by his many friends and family. A "Celebration of Life" service will be held at a later date in June 2013 in State College, PA by the family so that all family members and friends can be in attendance. Memorial contributions may be made to: PAWS 1401 Trout Road State College, PA Or can be sent to the Gallagher/Corl Family to be put in a Trust Fund for his son, Finnean M. Gallagher Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com