It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Harold Joseph Gallerno, at the age of 92.
Born on May 14, 1934, to the late Alfred and Mary Helen Countryman Gallerno, Harold was born and raised in Port Lambton, the community he proudly called home for his entire life.
Harold was the youngest of eight children and was predeceased by all seven of his siblings: Donna, Mildred, Etta, James, Charles, John, and Gerald. As the last surviving member of his immediate family, his passing marks the closing of a generation and a lifetime of family history rooted in Port Lambton. He was also a proud and much-loved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Harold was predeceased by his beloved wife, May Gallerno, with whom he shared an extraordinary 68 years of marriage. Harold and May truly danced their way through life together, creating a home that was always warm and welcoming—a place filled with family, friends, music, laughter, and many wonderful memories. After 68 years of marriage and a lifetime of dancing together, there is comfort in imagining Harold and May dancing together once again.
Harold cherished his four children: Randy Gallerno (Jeanine), Deborah Cogghe (Dan), the late Edward Gallerno, and the late Danny Gallerno. He was also predeceased by his son-in-law, William Billy Mandeville.
He was immensely proud of his grandchildren: Christy, Melanie, Eddie Joe, Timothy, Kimberly, Charlene, Anthony, Shannon, Jason, Stacey, Nikki, April, Tiffany, and Melissa. His greatest joy was watching his family continue to grow through the generations. Harold was blessed with 27 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren, each adding to the remarkable family legacy he and May created together.
Harold was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent his entire career as a millwright with Libby Nestlé Manufacturing in Wallaceburg. His strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family were qualities he carried throughout his life.
Harold also believed in giving back to the community he called home. He proudly served as a member of the Port Lambton Volunteer Fire Department, contributing his time and service to the community that meant so much to him.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Harold was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved spending time in nature. He took tremendous pride in his spectacular garden, making sure there were always fresh vegetables to share and put on the dinner table.
Music was another great love of Harold’s life. His home was rarely without it, and some of the best memories made there were accompanied by good music, laughter, family and friends.
Harold also loved camping and the many friendships that came along with it. He especially treasured the time spent with his “Million Dollar Friends,” and was happiest when surrounded by good company and conversation.
Above all else, Harold cherished his family and his friends. His door was always open, his garden was always plentiful, the music was always playing, and there was always room for one more person around the table.
Harold’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Fairfield Residence, who cared for him so wonderfully over the last four years. The kindness, compassion and genuine love shown to Harold, as well as the support and care extended to his family, will never be forgotten and is more deeply appreciated than words can express.
A man of deep and enduring faith, Harold was a devoted Roman Catholic and a longtime member of Sacred Heart Church in Port Lambton. His faith remained an important part of his life throughout his 92 years. His Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church on Monday, August 24, 2026 at 11:30am with visitation 1hr prior, from 10:30am until 11:30am. Following Mass, he will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Cemetery beside his wife and sons. Funeral Arrangements under the care of the Haycock-Cavanagh Funeral Home, 409 Nelson Street in Wallaceburg (519-627-3231). If you wish to make a donation in his memory, please consider supporting our local Sacred Heart Food Bank or the Sacred Heart Catholic School Snack Bin Program.
Cherished stories and tributes may be left for the family at www.CavanaghFuneralHome.ca
Harold will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all those fortunate enough to have shared in his long and wonderful life.
