Walter F. Gallery
April 11, 1947 - November 12, 2025
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Obituary for Walter F. Gallery
Walter Gallery, 78, of Milton, MA, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
Walter was born in Boston on April 11, 1947, to the late John E. and Helen (Orchard) Gallery. He grew up in Milton with his brother, John, and sister, the late Margaret “Peggy” Mah.
Walter was a 1965 graduate of Milton High School. After a few gap years and a successful adventure hitchhiking across the country, he went on to earn his degree from Salem State College in 1973.
In 1971, another hitchhiking adventure led Walter to a party on the Cape where he met his soulmate, Elaine. They married the following year and began their married life in Connecticut where they would welcome their first daughter, Megan. In 1977, Walter and Elaine bought his childhood home in Milton, where they welcomed their second daughter, Heather.
Their family complete, they made a lifetime of memories and cherished friendships in their wonderful neighborhood. They enjoyed many phases of their life together there – from Walter’s spearheading a multi street neighborhood block party to the more intimate celebration of a small group of neighbors after the growth of a successful front lawn 4 years in the making. Walter and Elaine were fortunate enough to carry many of their neighborhood friendships to Pine Tree Brook (Home Inc.) where they happily downsized.
Walter’s love of architecture led him to a lifelong career in real estate, spending most of his professional life as an appraiser before becoming a broker. He was well respected in his field for his expertise and integrity.
Walter was predeceased by Elaine, his wife of nearly 52 years. As partners, they demonstrated what it means to truly live out the vows of marriage. In good times, they enjoyed an active social life with friends, traveling and often dining out together. In more difficult times, they remained devoted and steadfast advocates for each other, often worrying more about the other’s well-being than their own.
Walter’s moral compass and never-ending effort to do the right thing in every aspect of his life were some of the qualities his daughters most admired in him. He was a gentle man and a gentleman and the best “girl dad” two daughters could ask for; always present with his unconditional love and acceptance.
The only job he revered more than “Dad” was “Papa” - and they don’t make them any better than him! Cherished by his four grandchildren, he was always eager to hear about their latest antics and would come to life whenever he was in their presence. The adoration was mutual, and his love and influence will stay with them throughout their lives.
Walter will be remembered for his kindness and sense of humor, with his quick wit often winning over a room and putting others quickly at ease. His laugh was contagious and his awkward dad jokes and spontaneous comments to strangers kept his daughters on their toes until the final days of his life. He reveled in jokes with his nephews and great-nephews and was always ready with a good-natured comeback.
Devoted husband of the late Elaine Anne Gallery, beloved father of Megan Gallery of Milton and Heather Sabattis and her husband, Mitchel, of Hingham, cherished grandfather of Madelyn (Maddie) Gallery, Alexandra (Lexa), Leighton and Nathan Sabattis. Brother to John Gallery of Philadelphia, the late Margaret (Peggy) Mah and her late husband, Jim, of Kansas; brother-in-law of Mary Lou Bohn and her late husband Larry of Milford, CT; the late Eileen Miller and her husband, Doug, of Vero Beach, FL; and the late Marguerite (Marge) Munger and her husband, Dave, of Stamford, CT. Walter is also survived by many wonderful cousins who were so good to him, and he leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews.
Walter’s daughters would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at Standish Village as well as the many friends and family who loved and supported him, especially Bob Grimes and Cathy Smyth.
Visiting hours at Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington Street, DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS, Friday, November 21st, 9am - 11am with a Celebration of Life Service to follow. Interment Milton Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Walter’s memory may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station, PO Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777
Services
Visiting Hours
09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Celebration of Life
11:00 AM
Interment
12:00 PM
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Condolences
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November 28, 2025
I'm sorry to hear about Walter's passing. I met Walter when he appraised a number of properties for me while working at DeWolfe Real Estate & Coldwell Banker Realty. Extremely knowledgeable, kind, helpful in so many ways. I considered him a friend when he visited our office in Duxbury. A true Gentleman. He will be missed. Sending my sincere condolences to Walter's family & friends. May he RIP with his beloved wife, Elaine.
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November 25, 2025
I met Walter in 1980 when I took over his Boston area territory while working for Homequity. The positions we held were called District Supervisor and there were a large number of us all across coutnry - Walter was known as "The Dean," a sign of respect for being better at the job than any of us. His help and kindness got me through the transition - it was the beginning of many years of friendship. Some years later I began a career in the appraisal business. Once again, he mentored me through the first couple of years. He was always there for me and helped me in so many ways. Though our conversations became less frequent as the years went by, I will miss them. Despite what was going on in his life, there was never a conversation without some of that "Walter humor." He was a true family man - always talking about Elaine, Megan & Heather and grandkids. Walter, you will be missed by all who knew you, and remembered always. Rest in peace, my friend. Mark McKeon
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November 23, 2025
I always enjoyed meeting Walter at the properties he was appraising. A very knowledgeable Fellow. A Gentleman and a kind soul.
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November 20, 2025
Sending our condolences and deepest sympathy.
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November 19, 2025
I knew Walter from the real estate appraisal world. Great guy and I have nothing but fond memories of him. My thoughts are with his family. I know that he will be looking down smiling at family and friends and guiding them.
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November 16, 2025
Walter my cousin you will surely be missed Im glad we got to spend time even though it was to do what little I could to help you You did love our trip to Castle Island Your humor mimicked your Dads will never forget you Diane
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November 16, 2025
Many memories from early childhood of Walter and Elaine but the funniest to me was when Mom was away and I had a party. Walter had been tasked with checking up on us and he and Elaine showed up at the party and in no uncertain terms told me the party was over. So I moved every one to thr 3rd floor bedrooms of the house and Walter came back and said Jess I can see through the windows! Get everyone out. 😁🤣🫣
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November 16, 2025
My dear brother-in-law Walter was the BEST OF THE BEST. He was such a kind and loving person. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him but those of us who knew Elaine and Walter are celebrating In joy that they are back in the arms of each other for eternity. Mary Lou .
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