Janet Merle Gallup

Janet was a beloved wife, mother, and friend. She lived a life shaped by family, friends, curiosity, and quiet brilliance. She married Don Gallup at 19, beginning a 70‑year partnership. She was a devoted and wonderful mother to Alicia and David, teaching by example more than by words.

She was loving, warm, empathetic, and forgiving. People were drawn to her wonderful laugh, cheeriness, and friendly, welcoming demeanor. She enjoyed talking with people of every station or status, about a wide range of topics, and enjoyed listening as well as talking.

Janet was remarkable in her creative life. She was an extremely talented musician and a concert pianist. She was always developing new skills and her hobbies included photography, weaving, painting, and stained glass. She traveled extensively and greatly enjoyed visiting other cultures and environments. Her home overflowed with books and films that reflected her curious mind.

Professionally, she became one of the country’s most highly respected aerobiologists and she founded Environmental Microbiology Laboratory which still exists today. Her pioneering work and ideas continue to shape how indoor mold is understood and evaluated.

Janet avoided the spotlight, but her impact was profound. She leaves a legacy of independent thinking, compassion, and creativity that lives on in her family, friends, and the people and fields she quietly influenced.

A Memorial Service will be held at Fairhaven Memorial Park Mortuary, in the Legacy Chapel, located at 1702 Fairhaven Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705, US, on April 18, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.

A Committal Service will follow at Fairhaven Memorial Park, on the H Lawn, also located at 1702 Fairhaven Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705, US, on April 18, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

Janet will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. The family of Janet welcomes you to share here your fondest memories of her.