John A. Gallagher, age 81 of Shawano, died on December 13, 2015. His family surrounded him as he embarked on his next journey. Born on December 8, 1934 in Shawano, he was the son of the late John A. and Gretchen (Arent) Gallagher. He attended Notre Dame University, before returning to Shawano to take over the family business, Gallagher Drug Store. He was the third generation to run the store and was known for his kindness, generosity, and smile. He met his wife, Peg Gardner, of Green Bay, on a blind date in 1960 at the Packer vs. Bears game. The Packers won, and so did he. They married a year later and started their family.   He was a man of strong faith and a life-long member of Sacred Heart Church, where he served on various boards and committees. He was a passionate and committed member of the community. He was president of the Shawano Chamber of Commerce, he served as a County Board Member, and he was quick to volunteer for local events. He was honored as Shawano's Distinguished Citizen of the Year in 2001. He dedicated his life to building a better community and quality of life for Shawano residents. He loved reading, watching the Packers, golfing and taking naps with his puppy buddy, Kielee. Most of all, he loved his family and took pride in his children and grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife, Peg of Shawano; three children, John A. (Kathleen) Gallagher of Carrboro, NC, Meghan (Paul Villez) Gallagher of Shawano, Molly (Joe Morales) Gallagher of Edwards, CO; six grandchildren, Jack, Bridget, Maggie, Andie, Makayla and Sam. He is further survived by a sister, Marjorie Van Drisse of Green Bay, a sister-in-law, Mollie Clark of Riverside, CA; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

John is preceded in death by his parents, one sister Noreen, and brother-in-law Bill Woodward.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 18th, 2015, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Rev. Luke Ferris officiating. Visitation will be held at Sacred Heart Church on Thursday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. and again on Friday from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Military rites will be conducted by the American Legion Post #117.  Memorials may be directed to the Shawano Area Community Foundation or Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. www.swedbergfuneralhome.com