Gary Gene Galey Jr., age 60, of Crawford, Nebraska, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 30, 2021, at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. His Memorial service will be held at 10 am on Saturday, August 14, 2021 at Christ Community Church in Crawford, Nebraska with Pastor Steve Mallery officiating. Inurnment will follow at the Crawford City Cemetery. A memorial has been established to the Friends of Pets in Chadron, Nebraska. Online condolences may be left at www.dugankramer.com
Gary was born to Gary Sr. and Zoleta Galey on February 11, 1961. He graduated high school from Crawford High School in 1979. Immediately after graduating high school, he began his long career at BNSF Railroad until he retired in 2016. He raised exotic birds and animals throughout his life, which was his true passion. He had two children, Dezarae Brandt and Chance Galey. Gary enjoyed traveling to watch his son, Chance play sports. He enjoyed nearly daily phone calls with his daughter, Dezarae. He was extremely proud his children graduated college and would often say he thought he did “okay” with raising his children.
Gary enjoyed being outdoors, woodworking, spending time with his animals, riding ATVs, and planning his next get rich adventure. He kept a small circle of close family and a few friends. Gary was admired by his ability to be honest and stay true to his colors, despite the adversities that would come his way. His favorite quote was “Well that didn’t go according to plan. Hang on this could get a little western!”
The past few years were not always easy for Gary. He was grateful for his family, friends, and neighbors that were willing to lend a hand. The Galey family would like to extend a special thanks his neighbors, Tim and Connie Bosak, Aaron Young, and his dear friend, Dale Ray Rising.
Gary is survived by his father, Gary Sr., who was always there for him; his two children, Dezarae (Jason) Brandt and Chance (Jenna) Galey; five grandchildren, Ava, Jaxson, and Charlie Brandt and Ayden and Kellyn Galey; his brother, Jay (Meloni) Galey; nephew, TJ Galey and nieces Jaycy and Kelsey Galey; uncles and aunts, Bob and Naomi Galey, Larry and Karen Miller, Margaret Galey, and Kay Galey; and many cousins.
Gary was preceded in death by his mother Zoleta Galey and grandparents Doris and Tom Hamaker
