Michael J. Kilgallen

Michael J. Kilgallen, 56, of Galway, NY passed away on September 3, 2024. Born on March 9, 1968 in Schenectady, NY, Michael lived his life as a devoted husband, supportive father and local business operator.

Michael graduated from Schalmont High School in 1986, where he excelled in athletics, primarily wrestling, soccer, and track. Mischievous in his youth, Michael found purpose in his family and career.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Michael worked tirelessly establishing Rayco of Schenectady as a local industry leader in manufacturing and metal finishing. The family business in Amsterdam is also where he met Linea, his business partner and beloved wife of 30 years.

Michael was a fiercely dedicated husband and father of three children Connor, Michaela, and Kelly. He always encouraged their pursuits and showed support as a Boy Scout Troop Leader, youth sports coach, and Amsterdam High School Robotics Team mentor. Michael took immense pride in putting his three children through college–Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Stony Brook University, and Clarkson University.

Ever-improving, Michael was never satisfied–always pushing himself and others around him for greatness. As a big thinker, nothing was ever small with Michael. He was known for elaborate Halloween displays and choreographed Christmas light shows at the former family home on Guy Park Ave. in Amsterdam.

Nicknamed DynaMike, Michael was also known for his unrivaled July 4th fireworks shows on Big Moose Lake. Michael found peace near the water, from the bright blue oceans of Key West to the calming lakes of the Adirondacks.

The Adirondacks were an extremely special place for Michael and his family. The family camp, a historic hotel built in 1898, was in constant need of repair, but Michael was the right man for the job. Persistently productive, Michael was always fixing or improving something. He almost never stood still.

Michael was a man of many interests. He was an admirer of fast motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, and cars–specifically Corvettes. Later in life, he found an interest in art, antiques, and other historical oddities. Silly jokes amused him, like water skiing in a bear costume. Rarely seen without a dog by his side, Michael loved the family companions Yoda, a loyal golden retriever, and Princess Leia, a feisty Shih Tzu.

A stoic man with a childish sense of humor, spontaneous but well-researched, thoughtful yet forgetful–Michael was a paradox. He will be deeply missed.

Michael is survived by his wife Linea Kilgallen, three children Connor, Michaela and Kelly Kilgallen, sister Regina Reals, her husband Nathaniel Reals, and sister Stacy DeMeo.

Calling Hours will be held at Bond Funeral Home (1614 Guilderland Ave., Schenectady) on Thursday, September 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the First Reformed Church of Scotia (224 N Ballston Ave., Scotia) on Friday, September 13 at 10 a.m.