Albert Alexander Gallwas

Obituary Albert Alexander Gallwas "Our Buddy" Albert (Bud) passed away peacefully at home February 9, 2008 surrounded by his family. Bud was born in Tacoma, WA, September 4, 1924 to Nick and Lucy Gallwas. He attended Bellarmine High School where he was active in football, baseball and ROTC. After graduating from Bellarmine, Bud enlisted in the Army. He was an original Airborne Ranger proudly serving with the 82nd Airborne Division, 517th Parachute Combat Team in several campaigns including the Battle of the Bulge. He served overseas for two and a half years. He returned to Tacoma in January 1946 and a month later he and Mary Patricia were married. Bud worked for the City of Tacoma for over 30 years. In addition to his full time job, he held many part-time jobs over the years. Puyallup Fair goers may remember him as a friendly usher in the grandstand where he worked every year during fair season for over 40 years. Bud made friends with everyone he met and was on a first name basis with many members of the community. He was a devout Catholic and a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church for 20 years and he devoted every Wednesday morning to the Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Holy Cross. Preceding him in death are his parents; sisters, Dorothy and Helen; daughter, Mary Beth and granddaughter, Mary. He leaves behind his wife of 62 years, Mary Patricia (Mallany); sister, Mary Cloherty and seven children: Lawrence, Oak Harbor; Judith Stephens (Bob), Tacoma; Jane Schultz, New Brighton, PA; Gregg (Marianne), Tacoma; Alan, Spokane; Mark (Maria), Tacoma; and Kathleen Robinette, Tacoma. Surviving grandchildren are: Lisa, Larry, Emily, Erika, Michael, Kevin, Melissa, Melanie, Jacob, Ryan, Steven, Preston, Amanda, Alexander, and Brittni. Also surviving are 15 great-grandchildren, many nephews, nieces and cousins. Bud will be loved and remembered by his family and all who knew him. The family would like to thank Franciscan Hospice, especially Therese and Pat who provided such loving care and support. The family also thanks Father Rock, Sue Davis and members of Holy Cross Catholic Church for their prayers and love. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, February 15, 2008 at 11:00 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 5510 North 44th St., Tacoma, WA. Rosary will be recited Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 7:00 pm at Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel, 1002 S. Yakima Ave., Tacoma, WA. Viewing will be Thursday, February 14, 2008 starting at 10:00 am. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Gifts in Albert's name may be made to Franciscan Hospice or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.