My memories are many but my words fall short when it comes to expressing my sadness.   I am sending love and light from Loomis, Ca.

I've been lucky enough to know Mary for a long time now.  My sister was Dixie Welker and Mary was one of her best friends.  They worked together at probation and they and their families had a lot of fun together.  When I got married 35 years ago we were working on a tight budget and Frank Galla was kind to volunteer to take our wedding photographs.  Mary, Frank, Matt and Jessica were all in my life through my sister.  Mary was always there for Dixie when she fought cancer and I got to know Mary better then.  She was unfailingly kind, considerate and strong and she lent a lot of that strength to us all during that rough time.
After Dixie passed away, Mary and I stayed in contact and I was really blessed to have her there.  When my daughter, Samantha was born, I would send Mary the pictures as she grew.  Mary  would always let me know when the pictures were on her refrigerator.  I've saved some  sweet notes she wrote to Samantha upon her college graduation and on other special occasions in her life and appreciated her wisdom and caring.  Whenever we talked Mary never failed to not only ask about me and my family but always wanted to know how my sisters and niece Karen were.  Mary cared so much about others and it showed in every word and action.  I hated that she had to face cancer so many times but that didn't stop her from living her life and enjoying the family she loved so much.  When we last talked she told her about the "bucket list" vacation she took with her sister and all the latest things happening with Matt, Jessica and her grandchildren.  She loved them all so much and told me how she loved going to the school events to see her grandchildren.  I know how much it hurts to lose someone you love so much and I hope her family finds happiness in the most precious memories they have and the knowledge that her love lives on in them always.  She will be missed by me and so many others.  

I was fortunate to have a long talk with Mary on the phone before she left on her trip with Jolene to her new house, and then on to meet Matt and his partner halfway from his home in Pittsburgh from Jolene's house.  Mary told me how proud she was of Matt owning a home and how grateful she was that he always visited and cleaned her gutters and did general maintenance on the house to make sure it was in tip top shape. He was dutiful as well as accomplished.  She also told me how proud she was of the mother Jessica was to her children Zanith and Zachary.  She said they were both flourishing under Jessica's supervision.  Zanith had been a varisity cheerleader at Poly High School and was now working as a box girl at a local grocery store while getting her college requirements out of the way at RCC. Zachary was a star baseball player.  I told her what was going on with me.  We ended by telling each other we loved each other.  I didn't know it would be the last time I would speak with Mary.  I am grateful though for that conversation and many, many others we had over the years.   Mary was a part of my childhood and young adulthood.  I know I am lucky to have known her and had her in my life.  I know it is very hard to lose a cherished grandparent or mother, but I hope that all the people that loved Mary show that love to you, and that the good memories you have of her help you some in this very difficult time.                                                                             Love, Karen Welker (sorry for the two entries the program cut me off in the middle of one entry or I hit the wrong button or something) 

(Sorry I pressed the wrong button).  Mary was such a special person.  So thoughtful and giving of herself and her time.  She said she received over a hundred birthday cards this past year and, she made a point to write back to everyone who sent her one.  I remember the summer BBQs and pool parties.  I remember the Turkeys and the bowling league.  The trips to Vegas, and so many things that the Welkers and Gallas did together.   It is hard to lose a parent as you know.   I just hope all the wonderful things your mom did for you, with you, and as an example to you last a lifetime and ease the heartache some.                                                                          With Much Love, Karen Welker




My heartfelt blessings and memories I carry of dear Mary to all of you on the passing of your dear sweet Mom. When I became a Juvenile Probation Officer in Feb.  1977   I was so fortunate to be in the same unit as your most awesome Mom.  She taught me so much and exemplfied  caring and responsible  Dedication to the young people  she sought to help!
 I remember when she and your dad and you two would come to my house in Escondido and we would play croquet and have fun together.   Your parents so loved you  and were so proud of you always .   Mom and dad are together in heaven and feeling all the love given to them  by you!
Blessings Linda Strickland Pasek


OBITUARY

Mary Jane Galla

July 10, 1942 – September 28, 2018

Pierce Brothers Crestlawn Memorial Park and Mortuary

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