James “Jim” Gallagher, age 87, of LaValle, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, with his family by his side.

Jim was born on October 5, 1938, and was one of 9 children of Phillip and Susie (Greenwood) Gallagher of LaValle. Jim grew up on the family farm and when he turned 18, he joined the Army where he served for three years. After returning to LaValle, he found the love of his life, Ruth Collies, and they were united in marriage on November 11, 1967.

Jim shared his life with not only Ruth, but with his two children, Robert “Bob” (Jesi) Gallagher of Sun Prairie and Diane Gallagher (John Bartz) of LaValle. He was so proud of his two grandchildren, Kelsi (Keith) Craker and Brady Rufenacht, both of LaValle, and his two great-grandchildren, Lincoln and Lainey. Being G-Pa to Kelsi and Brady and Papa to Lincoln and Lainey was a title that he wore with honor.

Jim worked as a Sheet Metal Worker, Local #18, and a farmer, and had a true understanding of hard work, which he instilled and passed down to his children and grandchildren. Although it was hard for Jim to learn how to “not work”, as he became older, he enjoyed the simple things in life and his faithful routines which included feeding the birds and other critters that showed up, and making his weekly stops to Club 33 and Fishy’s Bar where he loved getting in on the weekly drawings and football pools.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Suzanne “Blackie” Wildes. Jim will be remembered for his giving heart, kindness, work ethic and how much he loved those closest to him. His legacy will live on with his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

To honor his clearly expressed wishes, there will be no funeral services, and his life will be celebrated by his immediate family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Jim always “took care of his kids”, so a scholarship fund will be established for his precious great grandchildren, Lincoln and Lainey, to support their future education.

The Farber Funeral Home, Reedsburg, is assisting the family.