Tilden Matthew Gallagher Jr.

Devout Catholic, Husband, Father, and Retired Naval Commander, Tilden Gallagher was a patriotic, hard working man that epitomized yankee ingenuity, a strong work ethic, and traditional family values. Tilden passed away on October 27, 2025 surrounded by family and loved ones who will honor his life and legacy by continuing family traditions, exhibiting patriotism, and displaying gratitude for life’s blessings.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Tilden had an early attraction to automotive mechanics being surrounded by multiple automotive factories. He could name almost any vehicle’s make and model with just a quick glance. This early attraction resulted in a life-long hobby of restoring and maintaining vehicles. Although he worked as

a teen in both the grocery and automotive fields, it was shortly after he completed his education at St. Joe’s Catholic High School, that he enlisted in the Navy and began his long military career.

His military training took place in Great Lakes, Illinois, and it was there that he met the love of his life at the USO in Waukegan, Illinois in 1955. Olga was his life long partner, and together they accepted all of the challenges of military life and the many moves across the country. Of course, the children came along as well,

and before long it was a very busy household with six children! Tilden’s naval career spanned three decades and included many long deployments across the globe - it was truly a case of “Join the Navy & See the World”.

Tilden always made time for family, whether it was picnics on weekends, camping trips, projects around the house, or the always present work in the garage where he was either building something or fixing something. Family and friends were always included in these productive and educational projects. He was the ultimate “Do It Yourself” guy as he built his own furniture, could handle any home remodel project, was an accomplished mechanic, and a true craftsman. This DIY mentality resulted in several children carrying on his mechanical and craftsman skills.

Tilden was very active in his parish at Our Lady of Grace, and was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He gave generously to many charities, and supported the work of the church. Tilden was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Olga Gallagher. Tilden is survived by his daughters Karen Taylor (James); and Rosemary Taylor (Ken); sons James Gallagher (Janice); Peter Gallagher (Brenda); Matthew Gallagher (Colleen); Mark Gallagher (Jessica); and 13 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. In addition, he is survived by his sister, Joanne Blahnik, of Rochester Hills, Michigan.

Services will be held at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in El Cajon, California on Wednesday, November 19th with Mass at 11:00 am followed by a luncheon reception at the family home. Burial with military honors will follow at Miramar National Cemetery at 2:15pm.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to a Catholic Charity of your choice.