Joseph W. Gallagher

Joseph W. Gallagher, 65, of Dunellen, passed away on April 21, 2023 in Somerville, New Jersey.

Joseph was born in Plainfield, New Jersey to Rita and George Gallagher on August 6, 1957. He went to school in Dunellen. He married Linda Eckhardt on May 9, 1981. He graduated from Lincoln Technical Institute. He worked as a forklift mechanic for Modern Handling Equipment Co. for over 35 years. Joe's love was for his family, his pond, his animals and his gardens. He was always involved in all of the activities his children participated in when they were growing up. As adults, he was the dad called on for help with fixing anything around the house, our cars - he always knew what to do and if he didn't, he was quick to figure it out. He continued to do the same for his grandchildren, aiming to never miss a game or performance no matter what. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather; affectionately known by many as "Coach Pop."

Joseph was predeceased in death by his mother, Rita, his father, George and his brother William Gallagher.

Joe is survived by his wife Linda and his two children and their spouses, Elyse Schoepp and her husband Eric and Shawn Gallagher and his wife, Brianne; two brothers and their spouses, George A. Gallagher and his wife Naomi and Michael Gallagher and his wife, Joan; several nieces and nephews; and the four grandchildren that he adored and truly meant everything to him - Aiden, Adelynn, Charlotte and Patrick.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Dunellen Recreation Department in Joe's name. Donations can be sent in the form of a check made payable to Dunellen Recreation, 355 North Avenue, Dunellen, New Jersey 08812. In the memo section, please note: In Honor of Joe Gallagher.

The family also wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the responding officers from the Green Brook Police Department as well as the EMT's from the North Plainfield Fire Department.

Friends may visit the family on Thursday, April 27, from 5:00-7:00pm at the Sheenan Funeral Home in Dunellen. All other services will be held privately.

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