Richard E. Gallegos

Richard “Rick” E. Gallegos, of Ottawa Hills, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and loved ones on February 18, 2016. He is preceded in death by his parents Baldomero and Susan Gallegos and is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Mary (Casali), son Andrew (Banhi) of Sylvania, daughter Jamie Childress (Brandon) of Waxhaw, NC, granddaughters Kinley and Natasha, brothers Gary (Barb) and Joël , and nieces Lauren Sweigert (Keith) and Meredith Brownell (Chase). Richard is also survived by his lifelong friend, Bruce Jonas. Richard was the CEO of Great Lakes Insurance Partners which he founded in 2004 after a long and well known professional career in the insurance and financial industry. He also founded and was the CEO of Transport Insurance Agency which was recognized in 2003 in Entrepreneur Magazine as a “Top 100 Fastest Growing New Entrepreneurial Businesses.” He was extremely proud and honored to be the 1997 recipient of the Diamante Award recognizing prominent Hispanic entrepreneurs serving as role models and contributing positively to their communities. Above all, Rick enjoyed spending time with his family, particularly with his grandchildren and cooking with his wife, Mary, at home. He was a voracious reader of history and nonfiction books and was constantly furthering his knowledge. Rick was known among his friends and loved ones as a consummate epicurean and celebrated life to its fullest. He was a proud patriarch who embraced family and friendship and whose drive and focus made a profound impact on the lives of many. His sharp sense of humor and quick wit were well appreciated and unparalleled. He was well known in his community for civic duties and involvement with numerous charitable organizations and contributions. As a member of several local organizations, he was proud to serve his community and be a part of making a positive impact and difference. Visitation will be Sunday, February 21, 2016 in the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. (west of Corey Rd.), Toledo, beginning at 10:00 a.m. and concluded with a sharing of memories ceremony at 4:00 p.m. Contributions in memory of Richard can be made payable to the University of Toledo Foundation - Cardiology and sent to the University of Toledo Foundation, 2801 W. Bancroft St., Toledo, OH 43606 Mail Stop #319.