Community Suffers Great Loss

Judge T. Jordan Gallagher, 63, of Sycamore, Illinois, passed away suddenly on Saturday, June 25, surrounded by people he loved, at Edwards Hospital in Naperville, Illinois.  His death came after a short battle with cancer.

Judge Gallagher grew up in rural DeKalb County, graduating from DeKalb High School in 1965.  He attended the University of Wisconsin, graduating in 1969, and Chicago Kent College of Law, graduating in 1972.  He was admitted to the Bar in 1972.

He served the citizens of the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit as a judge since July, 2008.  His judicial assignments included DeKalb County, Kane County Felony Division and Aurora Branch Court.

As word of his passing spread through the community, many reflected on his accomplishments and contributions:

Chief Judge of the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, F. Keith Brown, reflected on his professional and personal relationship with Jordan, saying “Judge Jordan Gallagher was not only my friend, but everyone’s friend.  He was one of our finest judges, respected by the prosecution, defense and the Bar.  He can never be replaced.”

Kurt Klein, Presiding Judge of DeKalb County, remarked, “Jordan Gallagher was the finest man I know.  He was my friend, my law partner and my fellow judge.  I can’t imagine life without him.”

Maureen Josh, DeKalb County Circuit Court Clerk, who originally worked for Gallagher in the State’s Attorney’s Office, said “Having known Jordan for many years, I was particularly happy that he was able to serve in the role of judge.  I know that was a highlight of his career.  He loved DeKalb County, he loved our court system, and we loved him.  ”

State Senator Christine Johnson said of Jordan, “He was a dedicated public servant who loved his community.  He served the citizens of this area with honor for many years.  He will certainly be missed.”

City Manager of Sycamore, Bill Nicklas, stated “I have spent most of my professional life here in DeKalb County and have always considered Jordan to be a leading attorney who served the best interests of his clients.  On a personal level, I have lost a close friend.”

Lifelong friend and colleague, Gerry Morel said, “I’ve known Jordan since youth; we even shared an apartment together in law school.  If you wanted a person as a great friend and a great lawyer, Jordan is the one you would choose because of his loyalty, kindness, and integrity, all of which came packaged with a great Irish sense of humor.”

Joe Bussone of Sycamore remarked, “Jordan was a good friend, an honest man, and a man of faith.  For the last 20 years, he and I attended religious retreats together.  He will forever be in my thoughts.”

Sister Rita Mary, former Director of Religious Education for St. Mary’s of Sycamore stated, “I asked Jordan to be a confirmation teacher because he lived his faith in the way he was so present to people through his sense of humor and his ability to be positive in each situation he confronted.”

Jordan Gallagher served DeKalb County as its State’s Attorney from 1976 – 1984, having been elected for two terms.  He was founding partner in the law firm of Gallagher, Klein & Brady with offices in DeKalb and Sycamore.  His firm represented several municipalities and townships as well as many loyal private clients.  In his remarks at his swearing-in ceremony, Judge Gallagher commented how much he would miss his contact with his many clients over two decades.  He also served as an Assistant Attorney General for over twenty years.  He gave extensively of his talents to many charitable organizations, including his home parish, St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Sycamore.

Arrangements pending at Butala Funeral Home and Crematory, 1405 DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore, Illinois 60178.  For information, call 815-895-2833.