Janis Roberta Gallagher

With heavy hearts and deep love, we share the passing of Janis Roberta Gallagher on October 28, 2024, in Penticton, British Columbia, at the age of 75. Born in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, on May 14, 1949, Janis lived a life full of love, creativity, and fierce devotion to her family and friends.

Janis lived with frontotemporal dementia for 15 years—a journey that revealed just how strong and spirited she truly was. Though the disease challenged her, Janis faced it with determination and a remarkable sense of humour. Her warmth, quick wit, and ability to connect with others never faded. The spark that made her uniquely Janis remained, shining brightly through every stage of her life.

She was the heartbeat of the Gallagher family: bold, expressive, dramatic, and deeply generous. Janis was a devoted wife to James Gallagher, her partner in business and in life’s many adventures. She was the proud mother of Wesley Gallagher, Richard Gallagher, and Lindsay Smith (Colin). She was a cherished sister to Jim Dyer (Lorraine), Guy Dyer (Joan), Lynda Hume (predeceased by her husband, Scotty), Elaine Lehmann (Ron), and Maureen McEachern (Brian), and will be missed by her grandchildren—Alexis, Dakota, Izzy-Rae, and Emme—as well as by many nieces and nephews who adored her. Janis was predeceased by her parents, Victor Hedley Dyer and Edythe Roberta Dyer, and her sister-in-law, Dianne Gallagher.

Janis had a true gift for making life fun and interesting. Her creativity and strong work ethic touched everything she did—whether sewing elaborate costumes, sharing funny and dramatic stories, or crafting meaningful moments for her family. She loved music, dancing, movies, and a perfectly timed joke. Her laugh was boisterous and contagious—it could fill a room and lift the spirits of everyone around her.

Though her absence leaves a hole that can never be filled, the strength, humour, and love that defined Janis continue to live on in her children and grandchildren.

A celebration of Janis’s life will be held on July 25, 2025. A private graveside service will take place at Hillside Cemetery, followed by a picnic at Island Park from 2–6 PM. All are welcome to join the picnic—please bring a lawn chair and a story to share.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021.