Rebecca Gallagher

Rebecca Gallagher passed away after a long illness, at her home surrounded by family in Palmer. Becky was born in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, to Christian Heling and Jeanetta (Gallett) Heling. She spent her childhood years on a small dairy farm in Gilman.

After high school in 1960, she relocated to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where she became employed in the Accounting Department for Fred L. Gray Insurance Company. There she met and married Jeremy Gallagher on Sept. 7, 1963. They resided in Richfield, Minnesota, for a year. In 1964 they moved to Palmer.

From 1965 to 1970, she worked in the Accounting Department for Golden Valley Electric Association while putting her husband through the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where she was introduced to some very cold weather. There they resided at Walsh Hall on campus. As was her “share with all” way of life, she opened her door to all flood victims during the infamous 1967 flood. The small apartment was covered wall to wall with people sleeping on the floor, some complete strangers.

From 1970 until her death, they made their home in Palmer. She worked at various jobs while raising her daughter Colleen and son Steven.

In 1975, she and her husband started a small business where she was the office manager until her death.

She was preceded in death by her father, Chris Heling; mother, Jeanetta Twigg; stepfather, Mert Twigg; and mother-in-law, Esther Gallagher.

She is survived by her husband, Jeremy; daughter, Colleen Gallagher of Seattle, Washington; son, Steven Gallagher and his wife, Theresa, of Wasilla; sisters, Lynn Radack and Susan Hazelton all of Wisconsin; brother, William Heling of Wisconsin; granddaughters, Makayla and Brandy of Wasilla; as well as many nieces, nephews and other extended family and friends.

Becky was a friend to all she met. Her several close friends have all commented regarding her caring, giving, unselfish attitude. She was a real “go-getter” when it came to helping any person she met that was in need.

Her family thanks Hospice and her many loving caregivers.

A private gathering was held at her home Sept. 1.