Edward B. Gallivan, 84, of Worcester, passed peacefully at home Thursday, June 9th in the care of his loving family. He leaves his best friend and wife of 52 years, Imelda (O’Sullivan) Gallivan; two sons, Darrell Gallivan of Worcester and Andrew Gallivan and his wife, Marisa of West Bridgewater; two daughters, Kerry Karman and her fiance, Michael Donahue of Worcester and Edwina Gallivan of Worcester; 14 grandchildren, Heather, Courtney, Kelly, Vanessa, Keira, Harry, Simon, Timothy, Patrick, Sean, Siobhan, Brendan, Kailyn and Connor. He was predeceased by his four brothers, Tom, Walter, Bobby, and John; and one sister, Mary Sheahan.
He was born in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland the son of Patrick and Mary (Cronin) Gallivan. After immigrating to the United States in 1970, Edward and Imelda were married in Worcester. He previously worked at HH Brown Shoe Co. in Worcester and later worked as a bus driver for the WRTA for 28 years. Edward was very athletic and took part in cycling and running. He participated in several Boston Marathons, as the last one he ran was at the age of 66. Edward was a very accomplished and well known accordion player and played with some of the most notable bands in the Greater Boston Area. Edward was a member of the Transit Workers Union, Local 22 and Central Mass Striders Running Club. He was a lighthearted and generous man with a great sense of humor. Above all else, he was a devoted father and grandpa who was very loved and will be greatly missed.
His funeral is Wednesday, June 15th with a Mass at 11:00 a.m. in St. John’s Church, 44 Temple St. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, 260 Cambridge Street. Calling hours are Tuesday, June 14th from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester. Donations may go to St. John’s Food for the Poor Program, 44 Temple St., Worcester, MA 01604. O'CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family with arrangements.