Margaret Gallagher

Margaret "Mugs" Gallagher, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 13, 2024. Born April 27, 1927, Margaret lived a life full of love, laughter, and devotion to her family. She was 97 years old. Margaret’s life took a pivotal turn when she met Charlie Gallagher, the love of her life. They were united in marriage on New Year’s Eve in 1947. Together, they raised nine children, instilling in them not only a deep faith but also a profound appreciation for hard work, the importance of family, and the joy of shared moments. After decades of nurturing her family, Margaret and Charlie retired "up North," where they embraced a peaceful life raising chickens and caring for Charlie’s beloved horses. It was here, surrounded by nature and family, that Margaret became "Granny G" to her grandchildren, imparting wisdom in her own special way. Summer days were filled with lessons in card games like poker, 500 rummy, and cribbage—all with a small wager involved—while the air was always filled with the sounds of Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and a healthy dose of boogie and hard rock. Charlie taught the children how to get their hands dirty with farm chores and enjoy the simple pleasures of a hard day's work. When Charlie fell ill, Margaret’s, along with her grandson, Jason’s dedication to him was unwavering. As his loving caregiver and chief farm hand, she demonstrated strength and tenderness, caring for him until his passing. After his death, Margaret moved closer to her children and grandchildren, finding new ways to stay connected and involved in their lives. Throughout her life, Margaret embraced adventure, traveling widely with her children and friends. She ventured to Mexico with Teresa, to the Caymans and Hawaii with Carole, Chuck, and their family, to Alabama, California, and Colorado with Butch and Eileen, and made cherished memories in Disneyworld with Marty, Laurie, and their family. She also visited Florida with Julie and JB, and to Utah for her grandson Bryan's wedding, among many other journeys. In addition to her travels, Margaret found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She spent countless happy hours at park concerts, at the cabin with Mike and Pam, enjoying Mother's Day brunches with Kay, Cathy, and Laura, and Thanksgiving with Larry and Barbara. Her friendship with Shirley Baribeau was another of life’s treasures, marked by lunches and visits that brought joy and laughter to both. Margaret had a spirit that was as feisty as it was fierce. Independent and determined, she never shied away from a challenge, whether it was dancing the YMCA or the chicken dance at weddings, defeating family members at cribbage, or solving cryptograms with ease. Her wit and charm were matched only by her kindness, as she spent time volunteering at her church, participating in the adoration chapel, and contributing to the quilting group. Her family was everything to her, and she was everything to them. Margaret leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. She was a woman who gave all she had to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, enriching their lives with lessons, laughter, and memories that will last forever. She was well-loved, deeply cherished, and is greatly missed by all who knew her. Margaret is survived by her eight children, Michael (Pam), Eileen (Butch) Neil, Cathryn Oberg, Larry (Barbara Delesha), Mary Kay Baillargeon, Carole (Chuck) Kelly, Julia (JB) Summers and Teresa (Mark) Olson. She is additionally survived by 20 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews and dear friends, including Shirley Baribeau. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; son, Patrick, and granddaughter, Shelly. Our family extends its immense gratitude to Mike, Pam and Eileen and their families for caring for Margaret in their homes the last few years. Mike and Eileen were loving and patient caregivers, providing their mom a secure and peaceful final season of life.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 30, 2025 at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake. Visitation one hour prior to mass at the church. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.