Remembering my father’s public service
By Art Gallagher
As a blogger and political strategist I’ve been credited with writing, in real time, the political obituaries, of many candidates and office holders, Democrats and some Republicans, in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
This weekend I am sadly tasked with writing the real obituary for my father, Arthur V. Gallagher, from whom I inherited many traits, including the love for writing, politics and the conviction that government should be run efficiently to serve the people. Dad passed away peacefully last night at the age of 88, from non-COVID-19 related natural causes.
My friend David Wildstein helped me a great deal in writing that obit by publishing, this afternoon, an outstanding summary of Dad’s public service in the 1970’s and 1980’s as a councilman in Bergenfield and a candidate for Assembly and Freeholder in Bergen County at NewJerseyGlobe.com
Here’s my favorite part:
As a local officeholder, Gallagher exposed that a park ranger hired under a federal funded program had been assigned to guard private property. He also objected to building 60 homes in a flood zone; decades later, Gallagher has been proven right. Gallagher also initiated mandatory recycling programs.
NewJerseyGlobe.com
Please read about my Dad’s public service career at NewJerseyGlobe.He was an officeholder to be emulated, in my fair and biased opinion.
I am sorry for your lost Art.
it’s always so hard/disjointing to lose a parent, especially one that leaves a lasting legacy in us. In our prayers…
Art…your dad had quite a public service career. I am very sorry for your loss.
Bob E
Hi Art,
I worked with and knew your dad for has later 29 years or so. Served on the Condominium board with him for most of that time after I snookered him into the position that he reluctantly took. I will miss him as he was also a good and caring friend. Sorry for our loss.
Sorry for your loss Art. Your dad raised a great son to be proud of.
I worked with your dad at Hedwin Corporation and we were still in touch with one another. He always put a smile on my face. He just texted me the Saturday before he died even though he sent me flowers everyday via text message. I will miss his sense of humor and his texts and occasional phone calls. Please accept my condolences.