Obituary of Denis F Gallagher

    Denis F. Gallagher passed peacefully at his long-time home in Edgewater, NJ on April 22, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Susan Loesser.

    Denis was the loving brother of Denise Houghton, and oldest brother of William (Joan), Thomas (Susan), Robert (Sharon), Duffy (Suki), Rory (Carolyn), Mary Heitmann (Billy) and Stella Bianchi (Randy). He leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

    He is pre-deceased by his parents, Denis F. and Rose Duffy and his brother Kevin.

    Denis served as a Navy pilot during the Vietnam War and as a reservist for years after.

    He enjoyed a career as a Captain in commercial aviation. He also finished the New York marathon twice.

    Denis was a mentor to many, and he will be missed by all. He will be remembered for his kindness, quick wit and generosity.

    With deepest gratitude, the family would like to thank Denis’ wonderful caregivers, Geraldine Meagher, Nino Chikaidze and Ereializ Castillo.

    A visitation will be held on April 30, 2025, from 9:00 AM-10:30 AM at McCorry Brothers Funeral Home, 780 Anderson Ave., Cliffside Park, NJ. A funeral Mass will then be held at 11:00AM at Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, 365 Undercliff Ave, Edgewater, NJ 07020 with burial to follow at St Catharine's Cemetery, 1100 W Chicago Blvd, Sea Girt, NJ 08750.

    In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate it if you made a donation in Denis' name to:   American Civil Liberties Union by clicking the tab on left.   

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    Hello everyone, I’m Rory, Denny’s youngest brother. 

    We all knew that this day was coming, but that does not ease the pain.

    Denis was frustrated by his decline, but he was also…

    Polite

    He was loving

    He was caring…

    Throughout his life Denis was adventurous

    Curious

    Quick-witted

    Fun

    Athletic

    Professional

    Determined

    And insightful

    He was an active citizen, elected to Edgewater Town Council

    He was a Navy pilot, a true patriot who understood and supported conscientious objection.

    He was an aide to the underdog

    He was responsible

    He was technical

    He loved Volkswagens…until he discovered Hondas

    He was thrifty… and beyond generous

    He was an inspiration

    He was a great brother

    He was a helpful son to our proud parents

    He was all of these things and much more.

    We are all better for having had him in our lives.

    He will be remembered always…

    Rest in peace my big brother… our Denny