Turlock

Fern passed away on September 8, 2011 at the age of 87 due to complications from lung cancer. She was born to Swedish immigrants, Carl Felix Wiman and Maria Wiman, in Turlock, California in April, 1924. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband of 60 years, Robert Gallaway, and her brother Lloyd Wiman. Fern is survived by her two sisters, Elsa Burnett and Frances Maria Welsh, her four children, Deanna Dusek (Bill), Jan Sawyer (Jim), Barbara Gallaway, and Robert Gallaway (Sara). She will be greatly missed by her eight grandchildren, Bill Dusek, Bob Dusek (Marsha), Michelle Becker (Mike), Serena Carwile, Sara Carwile, Rachel Leibrock Vick (Cory), Stephen Leibrock, and Adam Leibrock and her great-grandchildren Cassandra Becker, Chelsea Becker, Zachary Becker, Tyler Becker, and Brian Dusek.
Fern had not intended to have a life of travel married to a career Army officer. However, she used the experience to enjoy many countries and provide unique cultural opportunities for her children who, as adults, also worked and lived overseas. She was a gracious hostess and a wonderful cook. Never forgetting her Swedish heritage, Fern made her own potato sausage and traditional Swedish cookies. Her grilled cheese sandwiches and fabulous fudge were often requested by her grandchildren.
In addition to serving as hostess and “first lady” at military posts, Fern occasionally worked outside the home where she made wonderful, lasting friendships and was able to demonstrate her organizational and time management skills.
The marriage and friendship of Fern and her husband, Bob, was truly the hallmark of their lives. After their courtship in Turlock, they began their life together in Boise, Idaho in a wedding ceremony arranged by Bob’s Army colleagues before he was deployed to the Pacific Theater during World War II. The commitment and devotion between the two continued for 60 years with rarely a cross word uttered between them. They created a life partnership that was the envy of all who knew them and a standard few could replicate.
A private family service was held in Turlock. Please leave memories and condolences at www.allenmortuary.com.


Turlock Journal
Saturday, September 17, 2011