David Gallagher

A native of Philadelphia, in 1981 at the age of 40, David Gallagher relocated with his wife Jane and their three sons to Ithaca, NY, where he taught practice management for 10 years at The College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University. His eclectic career spanned a range of occupations including, to name but a few: mailman, sports writer (Phila. Inquirer) itinerant teacher (various colleges), Fuller Brush man, insurance salesman, and self-employed management consultant — more or less chronologically in that order. Amazing what one might have a go at when there are mouths to feed.

Life and its attendant challenges muddled along to an especially decisive and dark period (1995), when he first walked a labyrinth. That changed everything in life-altering ways. Metaphorically, labyrinth walking became the turning of the knob that opened the door to a hitherto unknown world of questions and mysteries. One aspect of the experience was knowing that he had been called to help bring the healing potential of the labyrinth to others. He has subsequently lived that purpose principally through participation in the founding of The Labyrinth Society, ensuing service as an officer and director, and as its first Executive Director.

Building an occasional labyrinth locally was still in the mix, but his service seemed more effectively placed and enlarged by working as behind-the-scene helper, both directly and indirectly, to all those who create, maintain, and use labyrinths worldwide.

David died on June, 4, 2023. He is much missed.