Tribute to former Rossendale teacher who died after 'row' outside home (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Tribute to former Rossendale teacher who died after 'row' outside home

11:09am Friday 26th August 2011 in Whitworth By Jon Livesey, Reporter

THE devastated family of a former Rossendale teacher who collapsed and died following a row outside his home has described him as a ‘gentle and loyal’ man.

Patrick Gallagher, 64, collapsed after an altercation outside him home in Market Street, Whitworth, on Sunday August 14. He died at Fairfield Hospital three days later.

Yesterday his wife and daughter spoke about their ‘wonderful life’ in the home they shared for 27 years – and which he rebuilt from a shell.

Mr Gallagher Mr Gallagher worked in the building trade when he first moved to Healey, but later trained as a teacher, specialising in science and technology, maths and English.

He taught in different schools throughout Rossendale as well as at City College, the Probation Service and for the Home Office at Buckley Hall.

His heartbroken widow Susan said: “Pat and I have been very happy together here in Healey for 27 years.

“Our daughter Catherine and I had a wonderful life with him here in this house, the interior of which he completely rebuilt with his own hands.

“He was my best friend and intellectual companion for 32 years.

“Our many friends and good neighbours have said how he touched people’s lives and that he gave so much to so many people.

“They have said he was the loveliest man and a generous neighbour and will be sadly missed.

“Pat was a gentle and loyal man, an extremely talented writer, musician and craftsman. We have been devastated by his death.”

Catherine said: “He was the best father I could ever wish for and was so helpful and supportive as I tackled new challenges and tried to forge my own path at university and in life.”

Mr Gallagher also leaves brother Michael and sister Margaret as well as several brothers and sisters in law, nephews and nieces.

Detectives investigating the circumstances of Mr Gallagher’s death have arrested four men aged 64, 59, 46 and 46, and a 46-year-old woman in connection with the incident.

All have been bailed pending further inquiries until September 16.

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