Pattie Jean Gallwas (also known as Mom, Pattie-Cake, Nana, and Grandma to her grandchildren), a woman of boundless curiosity and unwavering spirit, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, at the age of 89 in Galena, IL. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family. She was born on October 24, 1936, to Dr. Douglas Moore and Ruth Lillian (Godwin) Bush. John and Pattie were married in 1961. Pattie leaves behind her cherished husband, John Gallwas, along with her children: six sons, Douglas William, Martin Andrew, John Fredrick Jr., William Bush, Walter James, and Franklin Terry Gallwas; two daughters, Mary Lillian Lombardi and Isa Jane Magsamen; and seventeen grandchildren. Her life raising eight children had many twists and turns, but Pattie always found a way to keep it adventurous and challenging. When the family moved from Moraga, CA, to Darien, CT, John and Pattie turned it into a family road trip! They moved from Connecticut to Spokane, WA, and finally to Illinois. Pattie had a gift for connecting with those she met along the way. If you met Pattie, you are sure to have a delightful story to tell. Her passions were as varied as they were vibrant. Pattie had a deep affection for people, a special fondness for big dogs, enjoyed acting in Community Theater, and delightedin dramatic movies and romantic comedies. Her involvement in the theater highlighted her creative and expressive nature. She was a skilled bridge player, earning the prestigious title of Life Master, an accomplishment she was very proud of. Pattie enjoyed exploring museums, was an avid reader, and was always eager to learn and challenge herself. She always reached for the top and was always on top of the latest fashion! Pattie and John retired to Apple Canyon just outside of Galena. She cherished the peaceful countryside and her home perched on a charming lake. She especially loved her time with her husband, surrounded by family, at the annual Summer Gallwas family reunions, which were filled with music, bonfires, dancing, and fireworks. Later in life, Pattie found profound meaning in her conversion to Catholicism. She dedicated her time and compassion to volunteering at her local church and a local nursing home, offering comfort and companionship to those who were lonely or frail. Pattie was known for her intelligence and her feisty, stubborn, yet caring and compassionate nature. While Pattie endured numerous challenges caused by dementia during her later years, she is now at peace and free from the burden of this debilitating condition. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her!
Pattie Jean Gallwas
Patti was such a delightful woman. She came into our shop in downtown Galena through the years and I always felt happy. She was kind, talkative, and so pleasant. Such a special person 💕.
Susan Votroubek
Such a wonderful, wonderful Lady! Peace, Joy, Happiness, and Love in Heaven. Thought and prayers to the family.
My mother, Eleanor Haynes, John’s aunt, would have wanted to post her thoughts about Patti Gallwas, so I will do it for her. Before Mom passed away in 2002, she was always in admiration of Patti and her courage, love and strength in helping her large family navigate through life, who’s guidance helped John and her children each achieve successful lives. She last saw the family at a Chicago wedding, traveling from Seattle to Chicago in her 80’s. I will always remember how amazed my mother was of Patti as a loving person and soul mate and wife to her nephew John. I share her feelings and thoughts. Patti was always the most gracious host when we visited, first meeting her in Palo Alto in the early 60’s after she and John were married, then later in Moraga, then in Connecticut, once at our home in Cincinnati, and numerous times in Chicago and Apple Canyon. I will never forget our first visit in Palo Alto, with Patti introducing her “puppy” Hondo, a huge black mastiff dog that stood so tall he could look you in your eyes while you were sitting. Many other huge dogs were to come. Patti, we miss you.
Stephen Haynes
Isa, Mike & Family,
So sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. My deepest sympathies to all. Pattie was such a sweet lady, all your wonderful memories will live in your heart forever 🩷