With courage and grace, Tom Gallagher, 73, passed away peacefully at home, on September 14, 2025, surrounded by his family.
Born in Calgary, AB, Tom was the middle son of Jack and Katie Gallagher, who instilled in their children a love of exploration, inquiry, and spirited conversation. Family dinners were lively forums, fueled by Katie’s dutifully clipped “Frontiers of Science” articles, where curiosity was always at the centre. Although challenged by childhood asthma, Tom defied expectations, excelling in running, hiking, skiing and cycling. Some of his greatest joys were ski-touring and hiking with his daughters and road-cycling with close friends.
Educated in Calgary and Switzerland, Tom earned his geology degree from the University of Calgary. Under the mentorship of renowned explorer Leo Miller, he built a career that took him across the globe—from the Canadian Arctic to South Africa and Australia—discovering and developing mineral and petroleum resources.
Tom’s passion for geology reflected his broader love of the natural world. Geology, combined physical endurance with scientific inquisitiveness, always stretching him further and inspiring others to keep pace. Only two years ago, while living with a terminal T-cell lymphoma diagnosis, Tom placed third in his division in the Victoria 8 km race—a testament to his resilience and strength.
After retiring professionally, Tom continued to explore. He mapped the geology of much of southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands—often by bicycle—and remained deeply engaged in science discussions through groups such as Ocean Networks Canada, Friends of Science, regular gatherings with friends and through public outreach, including a YouTube lecture on Earth’s climate history. He delighted in encouraging his grandchildren and others to remain curious and inquisitive about the world, seeking the truth behind the headlines.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Christine; his daughters Erin (Lian) and Laura (Josh); his stepdaughter Michelle (Graham); and five grandchildren, Weston, Addison, Raife, Rush and Falyn. He will be deeply missed by his brothers Jim (Pamela) and Fred (Heather), and by his many nieces, nephews, and the younger generation who he engaged through his humour, athleticism, curiosity, and inquisitiveness.
To celebrate his life, Tom would want you to step outside, embrace the natural world, stay curious and share your smile with a stranger.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wikipedia, reflecting Tom’s lifelong commitment to curiosity and knowledge.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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17 Responses
Irene and I are very sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. A good neighbour, and, as noted in the obituary, his knowledge of science beyond his own field was amazing – I recall a lively discussion of vaccinology with him. In accordance with his suggestion, we’ve made a donation to Wikipedia. A life well-lived, and our condolences to Christine and family.
The 1975 U of C Geology class was a great group of people. I think that Tom was one of the nicest, friendliest and most polite people in the class. I did not know him really well but had a great deal of respect for him. I offer my condolences to the entire Gallagher Family.
We will miss Tom’s inimitable smile and zest for life. R.I.P. our fine man. Condolences to Christine and his family.
Love Andy & Murray
Condolences to Family, Friends, remaining Colleagues, close Neighbours.
What a lovely tribute to Tom. When we walk, we will hold him in our hearts. Our sincere condolences to all of you. His big smile, bright eyes and engaging personality will be truly missed.
My heart goes out to Christine and the family. I have fond memories of Tom and Christine together and I’ll miss Tom’s laughter and his spirit. God Bless
Erin and Laura, please accept my sincerest condolences on the recent passing of your father. I remember him to be a lovely man with a ready smile and a great conversationalist. Thinking of you and your families during this difficult time. May you be comforted by your many wonderful memories.
Fred- Thank you for sharing Tom’s story with us. Jeannie and I only met Tom a few times but remember him well. He made a lasting positive impression. The two of you shared many of the same wonderful passions plus that insatiable curiosity. Tom will be missed greatly by your family and friends. Jeannie and I extend our condolences for your loss. Losing a sibling is never easy. Losing someone like Tom is a great loss. All one can say is that he lived his life well.
Rod and Jeannie
Thank you so much for sharing the story of your dear brother with us Fred and family. We are sending heartfelt condolences and honouring a life well lived and may Tom rest in peace. ! Much love, Mac and Sue
Tom was truly one-of-a-kind. An extraordinary father, brother, spouse, friend, academic, athlete, geologist, and adventurer—the list of roles he embraced goes on and on. We’ve lost not just a remarkable man, but a rare spirit who always gave his full attention to those he was with and was the catalyst for many deep and engaging conversations. May he now rest in peace.
We feel deeply grateful that our paths crossed with his and are the better for it. We will miss him greatly. Our hearts are with Christine and the entire family, both immediate and extended. In honour of Tom’s lifelong pursuit of knowledge and learning we will make a donation to Wikipedia.