John G Gallup

On March 2, 2021 John Gallup, beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away. He was born on October 31, 1927 in Bridgeport, Connecticut to the late Evelyn C. and Prentiss B. Gallup. He attended the Kent School in Connecticut and graduated from Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. He served honorably in the US Marine Corp from 1945-47, rising to the rank of corporal.
John deeply loved his family and treasured every moment spent with them. He was predeceased by his wife, Paula, to whom he was married for 69 wonderful years. He leaves his children Susan Purdy, Paula Ingalls, Bruce Gallup and his daughter-in-law, Lindy. In addition, he leaves his grandchildren Clifford Purdy (wife Tricia), Kristin Blanchard (husband Steve), Ross Purdy, Heather Collins (husband Dennis), Jonathan Gallup and Holland Gallup, and great grandchildren, Deighton and Arlo Blanchard. John is also survived by his brothers, David Gallup and Gus Gallup. Besides enjoying time with their family, John and Paula loved to travel the world; especially to Italy, Africa and England.
John retired in 1998 from Strathmore Paper Company after 22 years as president. He then devoted time to serving his community. Over the course of many years, he served in various capacities with the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts (a founding member and trustee), Glenmeadow, the Economic Development Council, the Willie Ross School for the Deaf, Baystate Health Systems, the Judicial Conduct Committee, the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, the Friends of the Homeless, Mass Ventures, Junior Achievement, Reeds Landing, the Frank Stanley Beverage Foundation and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. In 1979, he coordinated George H. W. Bush’s presidential campaign in Western Massachusetts.
John was a member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Longmeadow, where he served on the vestry and sang in the choir. He was a member of the Longmeadow Country Club, Colony Club, the Century Club and the Unknown Club.
In recognition of his dedication to service, he received the Pynchon Award, the National Conference for Community and Justice Award, a Doctor of Humantics from Springfield College and the Rowley MSPCA award.
John will be forever remembered for his kindness, integrity and desire to help others in any way he could. Above all, John was appreciated as a trusted mentor, friend and colleague who will be truly missed.
A celebration of John’s life will be scheduled at a later date when we can all gather together safely.
His arrangements have been entrusted to Forastiere Smith Funeral Home, 220 North Main St, East Longmeadow