David M. Gallagher, age 75, of New Prague, died suddenly at his home on Tuesday, October 17, 2017.  Dave was born on July 18, 1942, in Robbinsdale, MN to Francis and La Moine (Pry) Gallagher.  He graduated from Robbinsdale High School, obtained his Bachelors Degree from St. Cloud State College, and his Masters Degree from St. John’s University.  Dave was a man of many occupations.  In his early years, he taught high school in Rush City and Montevideo and was an editor of the Montevideo American-News and the Shakopee Valley News.  He served as a Lutheran lay minister also in the Montevideo area. On July 14, 1979, Dave married Sandra A. Solheid at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague.  After marriage, he worked as a Chemical Dependency Counselor for Washington County Jail, retiring 13 years ago.  Dave was a member of the Knights of Columbus.  Dave’s passion in life was Lake Superior and great lakes shipping; his knowledge about both was legendary.  He was also an avid reader, writer, and public speaker.

Dave is survived by his wife, Sandy of New Prague; daughter, Katherine (& Richard) Gorr of New Prague; grandsons, Gallagher & Gardner; sister, Judy (& Russ) Lewis of Brooklyn Center.  He is preceded in death by his parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 11:00 AM at St. John’s Church in Union Hill with Father David Barrett officiating.  Visitation will take place from 9 – 11 AM also at church.  Burial will occur in the church cemetery followed by lunch at the KC Hall.