John Patrick Gallagher, a man that possessed an immeasurable zest for life, peacefully transitioned from this world to join the vast expanse of the universe in his spiritual form during the afternoon hours of Sunday, May 8th, 2022. In his passing, he found blessed comfort within his cherished Ventura home of many years and was lovingly surrounded by the people he kept closest to his heart.
Patrick, as he was known to most everyone, immortalized a life founded upon recovery, and grasped the extraordinary opportunities bestowed upon him to pay it forward, devoting a greater portion of his days to perpetuating acts of service to better the lives of those with whom he connected. Patrick’s profound influence on people and this world was undoubtedly transcendent of time and the way he mentored, guided, and provided for others was overwhelming. Although his toughness and grit were undeniable and readily witnessed, his heart was as tender and generous as his body was strong, and that generosity often knew no bounds.
For those who knew Patrick, it could be affirmed that he encountered each day with an unmistakable zeal and gratitude for the moments he was given, often engaging others with an infectious energy or amusing people with quick wit and humor. Some people talk about life and what they want to do, but Patrick went out and lived life, seized it, and did so with a remarkable blend of vigor and appreciation. Yet it was the humility which he displayed that struck a chord with so many and what drew people to his being throughout his lifetime.
Patrick was born in Los Angeles on January 31, 1947, the son of Tom and Audrey Gallagher. Although a California native, he was a true country boy at heart, often spending a good portion of his young life with family in Oklahoma, and that love of the outdoors remained a part of his persona throughout his life, be it hunting, lost out on the ocean, and of course, fishing; most notably for the large tuna in the Pacific. As a Ventura resident of 33 years, Patrick owned and operated a hugely successful floor installation business and became a pillar of his community; supporting local events, causes and schools. However, Patrick’s greatest joys in life were his family and friendships, in both the immediate and extended sense. He enjoyed an unbelievable life in marriage, in fatherhood, and as a grandfather, which he attributed to his 34 amazing years of sobriety. His embrace of a power beyond himself afforded the ability to live a miraculous life of courage, honor, and dignity. Patrick will be deeply missed, loved, and always remembered.
Patrick is survived by his wife, Tracey St. Johns, two sons, Brandon and Christian Gallagher, sister-in-law, Janet Curtis, and grandchildren, Thomas, and Aurelia Gallagher, along with countless family and close friends that he loved dearly. A memorial/celebration of life service for Patrick will be held at Noon, Saturday, May 28th, at The Ventura County Fairgrounds in the Anacapa building. May we celebrate the wonderfully full and fantastic life of Patrick “Peaches” Gallagher.
Arrangements are under the direction of the BOYKO & REARDON TELEGRAPH ROAD MORTUARY & CREMATION, 15 Teloma Drive Ventura.