Michael Anthony Gallagher

Michael Anthony Gallagher, passed away on August 14, 2026. Born on January 12, 1966, in Chicago, Illinois, he was the cherished son of Brian Gallagher and the late Geri Gallagher (née Pacenta).

Michael was a brilliant mind who graduated from Jacobs High School in 1984 and Southern Illinois University in 1988 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. In both high school and college, he played football and formed lifelong friendships with his teammates. Michael went on to earn two master’s degrees, first in Information Technology and then an MBA. In 1999, he married Janet Gallagher (née Pawenski), and although they later divorced, they remained dear friends.

An adventurous spirit, Michael was an inventor, entrepreneur, pilot, published author and an athlete with a double black belt in Taekwondo. He had a deep understanding of biblical teachings, which gave him an ability to always see the bigger picture. At the time of his passing, he was learning piano and performing stand-up comedy. Known for his bright wit and contagious laugh, he continued to foster relationships and be present for those he loved. His devotion to faith led him to teach and spread the word to others. Michael has left a positive impact on countless lives and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his caring father Brian (Cindy) Gallagher; loving siblings Melissa (Luis) Pavez, Rebecca (Steve) Meyer, Daniel (Kimberly) Gallagher, Benjamin Gallagher, Katelin (Bassel) Ihsan, and Abigail Gallagher; his nieces and nephews Michayla, Jesse, Harrison, Margaret, Annika, Brielle, Grant, Abe, and Avery; aunts and uncles, Anthony (Rita) Pacenta, and Pat Isenberg. Michael is also survived by many cousins, colleagues, and friends from all walks of life.

He is preceded in death by his mother Geri; grandparents Anthony Pacenta, Mildred (Millie) Pacenta, Mary Rose Lundquist; aunt and uncle Jack (Anne “Dolly”) Gallagher and his cousin Lara Barnett.

Michael leaves behind a legacy of laughter, ingenuity, and profound love for humanity and God.

Please join us in honoring the life of Michael Anthony Gallagher on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 10:30 AM for a memorial visitation at Saint Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 111 S. Hubbard St., Algonquin, IL 60102. Funeral mass to follow at 11:30 AM.