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‘Turbo Vestri Hostilis’

Rodney Alan Gallagher Dec. 7, 1932 - Oct. 16, 2023 MADISON, WI – Rodney Alan Gallagher, age 90, passed away at Agrace, Fitchburg, on Monday, October 16, 2023. Rod was born on December 7, 1932, in Madison, WI, to James and Katherine Gallagher. He graduated from St. Raphael's Cathedral Grade School and Edgewood High School, Class of 1950, and UW Madison, Class of 1956. Rod served in the US Navy from 1952 to 1954, stationed at Bainbridge, MD as a member of the Beach Jumpers Radio Unit. He took over the family business, Capitol Sand & Gravel, in 1956, and continued in the role with his brother Mike, until the sale of the company in 2018. He was very active in several construction associations, Edgewood High School, Nakoma Country Club, and the Diocese of Madison. Rod's first love was sports announcing. He announced the Madison area high schools and UW Sports for WFOW FM Radio. While serving in the Navy, he announced the first Interservice Boxing Championship which was broadcasted over Armed Service Radio. Rod was an avid sports fan of the Green Bay Packers, UW Badgers and golf. He also enjoyed traveling extensively and developed many lasting relationships with people along the way. His favorite trip was the Honor Flight in 2015. Rod is survived by his wife, Sue; his children: Terry (Dave Shadis), Lynn (Steve Meyer), Pam (Taylor) Smith, Amy, and Geoff (Tonja); and their mother Nancy Gallagher; Sue's children, Vince (Melissa) Hoeser, Mike (Jodi) Hoeser, and Jill Hoeser; many grand and great-grandchildren; and "Brother Mike" (Mary). Further survived by other family and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Thomas A.; and son, Thomas P. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. with Full Military Honors to follow on Monday, October 23, 2023, at ST. THOMAS AQUINAS, 602 Everglade Drive, Madison. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass on Monday at the Church. Burial at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. Rod was a cheerful, enjoyable man who openly showed his love for his family and friends. He never knew a stranger. He will indeed be missed here on earth but will be welcomed by God, who will make sure Rod has plenty of Badger tickets in his back pocket. Many thanks to his caregivers, Visiting Angels, staff at St. Mary's Hospital, and Agrace. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the South Central Badger Honor Flight, Agrace, or a charity of your choice.

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