November 08, 2013 (Pittsfield, Vermont) – On a brisk and sun-drenched Nov. 3 day, several hundred friends and family gathered at the Pittsfield, Vermont home of the legendary Michael D. Gallagher to pay tribute to his extraordinary life.

Gallagher, 72, a giant of the sport, was inducted to the National Ski Hall of Fame in 1988, and was an inspiration to many in the sport of cross-country skiing for decades.

Heartfelt tributes to the three-time US Olympian were heard from the likes of former stars and teammates Mike Elliott, Bob Gray and Tim Caldwell, including his friend and local running mate Mike Canty, his former coach Marty Hall and his friend Peter Graves.

Special commendations were also heard from some who could not attend like Bill Marolt, President and CEO of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, a teammate of Gallagher at Colorado University who wrote:

“As we watch the growing success of the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team today, it’s important to think back to the sport’s roots. Decades ago, Mike Gallagher helped blaze an early trail for the sport in America, playing a pivotal role as an accomplished athlete and a motivational coach. His success was an inspiration to a generation of skiers led by Bill Koch and future stars like Andy Newell.”

The day was full of special moments at this celebration of life for a cherished member of the American Nordic skiing community. Many personal reflections and tributes were shared and enjoyed as local friends from the Rutland, Vermont area where Mike was a local hero, mixed easily with his huge extended ski family.

Irish music and song filled the air, as family friend Katie Bowen played some of Mike’s favorite Irish tunes. It was a wonderful day, enjoyed by all, and the spirit of the Eagle, an inspiration to us all flew high.

Mike Gallagher will never, ever be forgotten.