GROTON: Michael John Gallagher, TMCMSS US Navy RET, age 79, of Groton passed away after a hard-fought battle with cancer on Thursday, May 2, 2024 with his family by his side.
Mike was born on July 29, 1944, in Dixon IL, to the late Richard and Anita Jean (Kendell) Gallagher. He attended Dixon schools but graduated from Bellevue High School in Iowa in 1963.
Out of high school, he joined the US Navy and honorably served his country for 22 years. Among his stations are the USS George Washington SSBN 598, the USS Sablefish SS 303, USS Skate SS 578, the USS Nathanael Greene SSBN 636, the USS Snook SS 592, Patrick AFB and he taught at NTC-Orlando. Mike retired as Master Chief (TMCMSS) in 1985.
After retiring from the Navy he worked as an I&C technician for many nuclear power plants throughout the US and finally ended up at Millstone Power Plant in Waterford where he retired in 2005.
During his retirement, Mike and Patti loved to travel. They took cruises and visited many countries. He was a big fan of college basketball and enjoyed fishing, a good book and spending time with his family and friends
He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Patricia Olzacki; his daughter Sheila Powers (Ron) and their children Ryan and Lexi; his son Sean and his children Kassidy and Tiffany; as well as his sister Terry VanLoo (Kenny) and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his sister Patricia Spangler and her husband George.
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Mike's family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday, June 1, from 1 to 3pm at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic, followed by a prayer service at 3:00 and concluding with full military honors. Burial will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a dog rescue/shelter or to Masonicare Hospice.