The family of Richard Alan Galganski is deeply saddened by his unexpected passing on May 19, 2022.
Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Rick retired from UPS in 2003. Rick’s deep and unwavering passion was being a firefighter. Through his dedication, he joined the Hillsborough Volunteer Fire Department in 1975 and eventually served as Fire Chief before moving to the Outer Banks, NC in 2003. There he immediately joined the Corolla Volunteer Fire Department, ultimately serving as Chief of the department. In 2015 Rick and his wife purchased a home in Southern Shores, where he then joined the Southern Shores Fire Department. Rick loved Nascar and being on or near the water. He was a talented woodworker and all-around maintenance man and when not at the fire department, could be found in his workshop. There were very few things that Rick couldn’t build, repair, or replace when tasked to do so, and always found time to help others. He was a registered donor and as such he will continue to help people “repair and replace” to rebuild their lives.
Rick was a loving and devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife, Karen, of 47 years; two sons, Bryan James, and Christopher Alan; daughter-in-law Kyra, two grandchildren whom he adored, Kenneth Stephen and Kylee Ann; his brothers Frank and Chester, and nieces, nephews, and sister and brothers-in-law.
Anyone who was fortunate enough to meet Rick knew him to be a man of few words, but with a quick smile. He made friends easily and was a friend to all. Rick’s wish was to be cremated until he can be reunited with Karen’s ashes where ‘the otters play in the water’. Rick’s wife and family’s plans for any celebration of life memorial service are pending at this time.
In lieu of flowers, etc. it is requested that you donate to the Leary Firefighters donation at learyfirefighters.org/donate or The Learly Foundation, 14 Murray Street, Box 243, New York, NY 10007. Please visit www.gallopfuneralservices.com to contribute and share condolences with the family. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.
