James P. Gallager

James "Jay" Paul Gallager 

October 4, 1956 - April 17, 2025 

James "Jay" Gallager, age 68, of Tinley Park, IL, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025. 

Born in Chicago to James and Lorraine Gallager, Jim or Jay as he was also referred to as lived a life full of adventure, passion, and connection. In 1995, he met the love of his life, Barbara Ann Seeman, through a friend-and as they say, the rest was history. Over the next 30 years, Jay and Barbara built a life full of joy, travel, and laughter, splitting their time between homes in New London, WI and Arizona City, AZ. 

A proud member of Local 597, Jay was a dedicated lifetime pipefitter, respected and loved by many in the trade. His union family became an extension of his own, and he cherished the strong bonds he formed through his work. Known for his skill and determination, he brought the same dedication to his passion for restoring antique vehicles-bringing vintage beauties back to life and turning heads at Arizona car shows, where his presence will be deeply missed. 

Sociable and generous by nature, Jay was the unofficial mayor of the garage get togethers. He grew a wonderful vegetable garden, sharing the excess with the neighbors. Whether on the water fishing for muskie or under the hood of a classic car, Jay was doing what he loved and sharing it with others. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James and Lorraine Gallager. 

Jay is survived by Barbara, his soulmate and partner of three decades; his sister Gail (John) Haneberg; several nieces and nephews; and countless friends and union brothers and sisters. His spirit will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. 

A great fisherman, a loyal friend, a loving partner-Jay, Jim, JP, James... whatever name you called him by, you knew you were in the presence of someone special. 

Services are to be determined and will be posted soon.