Obituary: Christopher James Gallivan, 49

On Jan. 7, in Puerto Rico, Chris Gallivan left this world to begin his next grand adventure.

Christopher James Gallivan was born in Massachusetts on April 17, 1964, to Richard and Audrey (Mildner) Gallivan. Chris tackled life head-on, living it on his own terms from day one. His sense of humor and sharp wit were the source of endless laughter for his family. Chris had a sparkle in his eye that when combined with his creativity and charm kept everyone on the edge of their seats awaiting his next intriguing idea. He was fiercely protective of those he loved and will be deeply missed by his family, until we meet again. 

Chris graduated from Chariho High School in 1982. He was a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and the martial arts were a very important part of his life. Chris was predeceased by his mother Audrey Gallivan in 1982, his nephew Brandon Wright in 2007, and his niece Marissa Hayward in 2010.  He is survived by his parents Richard and Patricia Gallivan of Stuart, Fla., his siblings and their spouses; Michael & Robin Gallivan of Jackson, Wy., Susan & Kent Hayward of North Kingstown, and Julie Gallivan Parker & Steve Parker of Walden, Vt., his daughter and grandson, Genevieve & Ethan Hedrick of Del Mar, Calif., and nine nieces and nephews.  

Services will be private. If you knew Chris, grab a friend and a pint, tell a few one-liners and share a laugh in his honor. He’d have it no other way.