Obituary of Jacob M. Gallardo, Jr.

Jacob Misael Gallardo, Jr. passed away suddenly on December 6, 2020, at his apartment in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, at the age of 72. He was born in Cayey, Puerto Rico, on August 5, 1948, to the late Jacob Misael Gallardo, Sr. and Maria Rivera Gallardo. Jacob resided in Chicago, Illinois, until January 1967 when he enlisted in the U.S Navy and served as an Aviation Mechanic on an aircraft carrier in an active combat situation during the Vietnam War. Jacob was awarded medals and recognitions that included: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (3 stars), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea). After his military service he returned to Chicago and, in 1972, married the love of his life—the late Anita Acevedo. In the Spring of 1977 their only child, a son Bryan, was born. For nearly two decades he was employed by the Chicago Board of Education as its Chief Facilities Engineer. Later, a master carpenter, Jacob worked doing construction and remodeling projects. While residing in Kansas, he became a soldier in the Salvation Army. Once he accepted God’s love and the Son’s saving grace, he devoted much time to the study of the Scriptures and sharing the Word with others. During his life, Jacob enjoyed cooking, watching movies and football games, and listening to country and worship music—one of his favorite songs was “Above All.” He was most happy making renovations/repairs. Whenever possible Jacob would make repairs at his church and the homes of family and friends. Further, people often remarked about his gentle, mild manner and keen intellect, as well as his exceptional memory, sense of humor, and diplomatic demeanor. To be close to a sister and her family, Jacob moved to New Jersey. At his final residency in a New Jersey Veterans Administration Housing Unit, he was frequently called by his veteran brothers and sisters to help assemble furniture and set up electronic devices. His technical savviness was recognized and appreciated by his friends and family. He took pleasure in keeping up with the latest technology. He was invited and participated in group events (including Bible studies with his fellow veterans). Jacob is survived by his son Bryan; five sisters, Keila Gallardo Halek and husband Frank; Malissa Gallardo Luste and husband Joseph; Ella Gallardo Paz and husband Mario; Sandra Gallardo Perez and husband Aram; Charisse Gallardo Hernandez; and one brother, Kenneth Gallardo and wife Nereida; and several nieces and nephews, including nieces Kimberly Luste Maran, Cynthia McNamee, Michelle Halek, Mitsi Gallardo, Monique Gallardo; and nephews David Halek, Kevin Burbano, Ricardo Burbano, and Jonathan Luste. Survivors also include aunts, Ella J. Gallardo, Martha Rivera; and an uncle, Luis Rivera. Jacob’s brother, Magdiel Gallardo, and cousin, Dr. Wesley Yapor, preceded him in death. Jacob was classified among the Vietnam Blue Water Navy Veterans. Exposure to Agent Orange in the Republic of Vietnam Waters was a contributing factor in his health conditions. An interment service with Navy Honors for Jacob will be held on May 14, 2021 at 2:30 PM at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 350 Provinceline Rd. Wrightstown, NJ 08562. Funeral and burial services provided by the Tilghman Funeral Home, 52 Main St., New Egypt, NJ 08533, www.tilghmanfh.com.