George Louis Galli 90, of Royal Ave., North Adams died Monday February 13, 2017 at the North Adams Commons. He was born in North Adams on October 11, 1926 a son of the late Mario and Ida (Angeli) Galli. He attended schools in North Adams. Mr. Galli was a decorated veteran serving first with the U.S. Marine Corp in WW II and later with the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was awarded the Bronze Star for valor with oak leaf cluster. He was employed for the North Adams Public Works Department and later for General Electric Co. Mr. Galli was also the owner and operator of the Chalet Package Store on Ashland St. in North Adams. He was a communicant of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in North Adams. He served as Past Commander of the North Adams VFW and was a member of the North Adams Elks. He was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins and the New England Patriots. He was a huge dog lover and handyman, and enjoyed playing cards. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His greatest enjoyment was being with family and going to the family activities.
His wife, Lorraine Frances (Durocher) Galli, whom he married October 3, 1953, died January 21, 2006. Survivors include his daughter Debra Bishop and her longtime companion, George Taylor, of North Adams. Three sons George L. Galli Jr. and his wife Susan of Williamstown, Michael F. Galli and his wife Stefanie of Valdosta GA, and Steven A. Galli and his wife Kathryn of North Adams. Ten grandchildren: Katie Chenail, Christopher Bishop, Jason Bishop, Jodi Campbell, Lindsay Lyon, Mitchell Galli, Nicole Warrick, Gabrielle Mierop, Michael Galli, and Devan Galli. Eleven Great grandchildren: David, Isabelle, Samuel, Lucas, Ashlyn, Aniston, Brooks, Samantha, Shane, Sawyer, and Jacob. He was pre-deceased by two brothers Marino Galli in 1979 and Lino Galli in 1995.
“Yes, all this describes what I did; but, does not define who I was and what got me through life. Whether I was on the battlefield as a soldier praying for survival or dealing with the everyday struggles that we all have, I always believed God and the Blessed Mother would help protect and guide me. I did my best to share their gifts in the same way by protecting, giving, and loving my family and friends, neighbors and strangers. What I discovered was something more precious than anything money could buy. I was the lucky one because God multiplied the love I shared and returned this love to me throughout my life. People would often ask me why I laughed so much, and I would often tell them it was better than crying. But what I really wanted them to know is that life passes so quickly and will bring some difficult challenges throughout our lives, but we have the chance to bring our piece of happiness to help others experience some sunshine in each day of their lives. It is a choice we make and I found a song on my lips and a good laugh makes everyone feel better. It is something we can all do.
Dear Family and Friends, come join my children and grandchildren to celebrate my life! A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday February 18, 2017 at 11am at St. Elizabeth Church in North Adams. Burial with full military honors will take place in the spring. There are No Calling Hours. Memorial Donations are suggested for: St. Elizabeth of Hungary Preservation Fund or Meals Ministry; or St. Joseph Indian School of South Dakota.
To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.