John Gallacher

John Gallacher, age 92, was born on January 30, 1934, in Glasgow, Scotland, and passed away on March 3, 2026. He will be remembered as courageous, authentic, funny, kind-hearted, and hard-working—someone whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and steady strength to those who knew him.

John was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, and graduated from Secondary School. He loved his mum dearly, and her passing when he was in his early 20s stayed with him throughout his life. John also loved sharing stories about his dad, who made dentures—one of John’s favorite tales being how his father made dentures for the lunch lady, who then fed John extra desserts. Those stories, told with John’s unmistakable wit, became part of the family’s treasured lore.

John graduated at 16 and began working as a “nipper,” quickly learning the trade of bricklaying. He worked on replacing fireplaces in the tenement houses in Glasgow, building a foundation of skill and pride in honest work. He courageously came to the United States and worked as a ceramic tile setter before being hired as a Civil Engineer at the United States Air Force Academy. There, he proudly dedicated 16 years of service, retiring in 1996.

John had three children from his first marriage in Scotland: John (Johnny), Joyce, and Brian. After moving to America, he married the love of his life, Jeanette (Jan), and they were happily married for 63 years. Through this union, John gained his bonus child, Debi, and together John and Jan had Tracy. John’s legacy continues through 13 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

John loved fishing, cooking, woodworking, and always enjoyed a day spent up in Cripple Creek. He loved all things chocolate. He was especially proud of the tile, brick, and woodwork that helped make their house a home—work that still stands as a daily reminder of his care, craftsmanship, and devotion. He loved Scottish songs and country music, and he had a gift for making people laugh. Even when he was in pain in his last days, John continued to bring humor to those around him and never failed to say, “thank you.”

John created his own off-the-cuff poems and fun stories and was known for being quick-witted. One of his favorites was:

“ Their was an old woman of 42 she let of a fart and away it flew, up the river and down the bend and back into her bum again! ”

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Bloom Hospice Care, Comfort Keepers, and Cornerstone Homecare for their care and support.

A Memorial Service will be held at Dove Witt Family Mortuary, 6630 S. US HWY 85/87, Fountain, CO 80817, on March 16, 2026, from 11:00 am, with a reception to follow. John will be laid to rest at Memorial Gardens, 3825 Airport Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80910, on March 16, 2026, at 2:00 pm

We will always love and miss John, and forever share his stories and songs. Gone but never forgotten.