Daniel James Gallagher Sr.

Daniel James Gallagher, Sr., beloved father, brother, grandfather. He passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, at Merced Senior Living after a courageous battle with brain cancer at the young age of 71.

Dan, also known as "Studly," lived a life rooted in devotion to family, friends, and community. He was born into an Irish Catholic family whose traditions centered around faith and family. Numerous cousins can attest to the wonderful upbringing they shared. As a boy, Dan worked in his family's business, Gallagher Cleaners. The family Business was a focal point in his life and provided him with an education in the structure and operation of a successful company. Gallagher Cleaners was dedicated to its customers and provided excellent service to the community. This experience began Dan's desire to serve others, a trait that continued throughout his life.

Dan was raised in the Ragsdale community of Merced, where the friendships and connections he formed stayed with him throughout his life. Without a doubt, it was the best upbringing one could have. The family attended Our Lady of Mercy Church, and Dan attended Our Lady of Mercy Elementary School, where he developed many lifelong friendships. He later attended Merced Union High School and graduated with the Class of 1973.

His professional career was centered in the financial industry, where he worked for various firms, including State Savings and Loan and Western Commercial Mortgage. Most recently, he was affiliated with Coldwell Banker/Gonella Realty. He was exceptional in his ability to assist clients and close residential properties throughout the greater Merced area. His success led him to become part of the Commercial Real Estate Division, a position he greatly enjoyed and found especially rewarding.

Throughout his life, Dan developed lasting friendships with members of the "Buds," a group of like-minded individuals who simply enjoyed having fun together. Golf was the main attraction. This remarkable group was instrumental in assisting the family during Dan's time of need, and for that we are deeply grateful.

Dan enjoyed playing golf, traveling, spending time with his children and grandkids, evenings filled with good food, wine, and laughter. He had a warm smile, easygoing nature, a gift for making people feel welcome, and always had a comedic outlook. There was never a dull moment when he was around. Even throughout his battle with cancer, despite his troubles with communication, he would still find a way to be humorous.

Dan is survived by his brother, Michael J. Gallagher and wife Judy; his son, Daniel J. Gallagher, Jr.; his son, Patrick S. Gallagher and wife Stacey, and granddaughters Hallie and Carly; as well as Colby and Austin, who were also an important part of his family, and Colby’s three children, Eliana, Michael, and Mateo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James P. Gallagher, Jr. and Marjorie E. Gallagher, and his sister, Patricia E. Gallagher.

A Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held on June 24 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 459 West 21st Street, Merced, California.

For those who wish to honor Dan’s memory, donations may be made to Stanford Medical Center - Department of Neurosurgery, in support of brain tumor research.

Stanford Medical Center Development

Attn: Gifts Processing

485 Broadway, 4th Floor, U470

Redwood City, CA 94063