Obituary of John H. Galligan

JOHN H. GALLIGAN Niskayuna-John H. Galligan, 68 of Niskayuna, died Monday, January 24, 2011 at his home in Niskayuna. He was born August 7, 1942, in New Haven, CT to John and Renee Galligan. In 1955 the family moved to Wells, ME. John graduated from Assumption Prep in Worchester, MA. He then obtained his B.S. from Boston College in Mathematics and a Masters in Education. John started his professional career as an educator and then went to work for NYS Conference of Mayors (NYCOM). John was a beloved employee of NYCOM since 1970, where he was recognized as a foremost expert on municipal labor law. His wisdom, wit and kindheartedness were admired by all who knew him. His passion for local government was recognized by numerous organizations, including special awards from the National Public Employer Labor Relations Association, New York State Public Employer Labor Relations Association, New York State Association of City and Village Clerks, and New York State Society of Municipal Finance Officers. In 2009, as an ongoing tribute to John and his lifetime of service to city and village officials, NYCOM established its highest honor, the John H. Galligan Award, to be periodically given to a municipal official "in recognition of a career dedicated to the noble belief that, through local government service, one person can improve the lives of all New Yorkers." He was an avid Yankee fan and a devoted father, brother, uncle and friend. He loved great food, craft beers, the ocean, and summer afternoons spent driving his 1967 Sunbeam Tiger. John is survived by his son, Craig (Grafton, NY); twin sisters, Anne (Meredith, NH) and Rose(Pembroke, NH); cousin Mary McCarthy (Leesburg, VA); Barbara Pidgeon (Niskayuna, NY) and many other relatives and close friends. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Friday January 28 from 4-7 pm at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Rd., Latham. A celebration of John's life will be held on Saturday January 29 at 12:00 noon at the funeral home with Rev. Nick TeBordo officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent "In Memory of John Galligan" to: City Mission of Schenectady, P.O. Box 760, Schenectady, NY 13201. For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com