Edward Gallegos Jr.

Edward Gallegos, Jr. was born on March 2, 1925 in Espanola, New Mexico, but soon moved to Caracas Ranch in southern Colorado. From these humble beginnings, Ed and his family moved to Pueblo, Colorado. After graduating from Pueblo Central High School, Ed enlisted in the Armed Forces and flew 28 bombing missions over Europe as a turret gunner. Five years later, Ed returned to Colorado and attended college at Colorado University, graduating with a degree in biochemistry. Then Ed met Shirley and a 65-year love affair began. It was in the late 1940's when they opened Ed's Pharmacy in downtown Denver and began building their family, which included Anita, Marc, Teresa, and Michael. Ed's background in biochemistry served him well as he went on to teach science at Denver's East High School. There he received a government grant to develop a new science curriculum that was specially designed for struggling students. A driven educator, Ed continued his studies, earning a Master's Degree in counseling. Later, he served as principal of Denver's West High School where he was greatly loved and respected by the Latino community. Ed officially retired in 1986 after serving as assistant superintendent of Denver Public Schools. Over the years Ed enjoyed a variety of leisure activities including travel, camping, sports, fly fishing, and gardening with his wife, Shirley. He had a talent for making stained glass, creating beautiful art pieces. Ed is survived by his son, Michael, grandsons Chris, Nathan, and Landon; and sons-in-law David Ellingson of Ventura, California and Jim Theriot of Littleton, Colorado.