Mr. Robert William Galligan Jr.

Robert W. Galligan, Jr., known to his friends and family as “Bob,” passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at the Lily House in Wellfleet, Massachusetts. He was surrounded by his devoted siblings. The cause of death was glioblastoma, which he faced with grace and courage.

Bob was born in Boston on May 28, 1948. He spent his early childhood in Hingham and Watertown before the family settled in Sudbury in 1954—a town that became the backdrop for his formative years. He was a proud graduate of Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, Class of 1966, and later attended Massachusetts Bay Community College and Merrimack College.

Bob was predeceased by his beloved parents, Robert and Frances Galligan. He is survived by his five siblings: Ellen Sabino (John) of Wellesley, MA; Freida Colleton (John) of Clinton, MA; Martha Galligan (Todd Sagar) of Richmond, VT; Marc Galligan (Millie) of Rumson, NJ; and Stephen Galligan (Midge) of York ME and Vero Beach, FL. He also leaves behind 13 nieces and nephews, all of whom cherished “Uncle Rob” for his warmth, humor, and steady presence.

In 1970, drawn by a deep affection for the spirit and beauty of Cape Cod, Bob moved to Harwich and soon found his true home farther east. Over the next five decades, he lived and worked in Provincetown, Truro, and Wellfleet, becoming a well-known and trusted member of the Outer Cape community. In Truro and Provincetown, Bob built homes and completed a wide range of construction projects, earning a reputation as a highly respected builder whose craftsmanship reflected the character and integrity of the region.

A true son of the Outer Cape, Bob loved its people, its beauty, and the gentle rhythms of life by the ocean. He formed many deep and lasting friendships over the years and will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and unwavering loyalty. His legacy is one of quiet generosity—he was always willing to help others, serving as a mentor and confidant to many, including fellow members of the 12-step recovery community.

Bob was deeply dedicated to his family. He never missed an important holiday or milestone - whether it was a birthday, a major celebration, or a family gathering. No matter how far he had to travel from the Outer Cape, he always made the effort to be there. His consistent presence was a testament to how much he cherished and loved his family.

He was also a devoted participant in the Pan-Mass Challenge, an event he enjoyed riding with his family members. Bob was a prolific fundraiser for the PMC, and just last year completed the ride from Wellesley to Provincetown—crossing the finish line in early August with his trademark steady determination.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to The Lily House, 40 Pocahontas Rd, Wellfleet, MA 02667 or online at https://www.thelilyhouse.org

Funeral services are private, and a celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date.