A proud career Army veteran and dedicated family man, Francis S. Gallup 83, a lifelong resident of Keene, NH, passed away on July 20, 2018 at the Applewood Care and Rehabilitation Center in Winchester, NH.
His parents, Paul and Stella (Plante) Gallup, proudly welcomed their son into the world on June 9, 1935 in Keene, NH.
Francis dedicated his career to serving his country in the United States Army. He enlisted on January 7, 1955 and joined the Company B 68th Medium Tank Battalion. His career also encompassed serving in the 127th Airborne Ranger Eager Beaver; the 307th Engineer BN 82nd Airborne Division; and then upon reenlisting, Francis joined the 1st Battalion Airborne 327th Infantry. His service encompassed duties during the Korean Conflict as well as two tours in Vietnam. He was the recipient of the Army Commendation Medal for meritorious service from December 1970 through October, 1971; three bronze star medals for meritorious achievement in ground operations against hostile forces in the republic of Vietnam; the senior parachutist badge; the armed forces expeditionary medal; a bronze star medal; and he was also the recipient of the purple heart for injuries sustained in combat. Francis retired from active duty on October 8, 1971 earning the rank of Sergeant First Class.
Following his military obligations, Francis dedicated his time to coaching hockey in Keene for a number of years. After his grandson, Mike was born, Francis became an important part of his life, caring for him, and watching him grow into his “pride and joy”.
Being skilled with his mind and hands, Francis enjoyed creating clay sculptures; stonewall building; and woodworking. He also enjoyed successful rounds of golf.
Fondly known as “Gramps”, he will be missed by all, including his children, Michael Paul Gallup of Mobile, AL, Bridgette A. Kraus of Nashua, NH, Ivy D. Travis, of NC; especially his grandchildren, Michael F. Gallup and his wife, Sonja, of Charlestown, NH, Vanessa Forgery, Katie Travis, Meghan Travis; his great-grandchildren, Noah, Morgan, Aiden, Victoria, Grayson; two brothers, Richard Gallup of Arizona, Joseph Gallup of North Carolina; three sisters, Pauline Fazio of New Town, CT, Joan Gallup of Danbury, CT, Melinda Galloway of NC; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. He was predeceased by his wife Klara (Fridel) Gallup on December 4, 1972.
A memorial service with full military honors will be held on Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at 12:00PM at the Vilas Pool Park, 39 Acworth Road, (off of Route 123A), Alstead, NH. Family and friends are welcome to attend. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Gallup’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarrierproject.org), PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8517.
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