Morris Glenn Gallo, a resident of Beacon since 2018 and formerly of Tampa and Fort Myers, FL, died at Vassar Brothers Medical Center on April 9, 2024, at the age of 76. He passed away peacefully and painlessly the morning after the solar eclipse with Janis Joplin on the radio and family right by his side.

Born on February 16, 1948, in the vibrant community of Tampa's Ybor City, Florida, Morris was the son of Mario and Palmira (Diaz) Gallo. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of South Florida where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Chemistry and Physics, followed by the University of Washington where he earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Prosthetics and Orthotics.

Turning his knowledge into a profession, he established his own practice in Fort Myers, FL, where he provided prosthetics, orthotics & patient care for over 30 years. In later years, he worked as an adjunct professor at St. Petersburg College, School of Orthotics and Prosthetics, and as an expert witness and consultant for the Florida Attorney General's Office. He also served as President of the Florida Association of Orthotists & Prosthetists (FAOP), the Vice-Chair of the Florida Board of Orthotists and Prosthetists and legislative author for the majority of statutes and rules concerning Florida O&P.

Morris's impact and interests extended far beyond his professional endeavors. He was deeply involved in politics and philanthropy, serving as campaign manager for the successful election of a Florida House seat, and humanitarian project manager for Sister Cities International, coordinating their efforts and resources to establish and fund a free prosthetic and orthotic clinic for the 5,000 amputees and survivors of the Amero, Colombia mudslide. In addition, he volunteered his time, mentorship and consultation to many individuals and organizations including the Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Known for his quick-wit and intelligence, Morris was a thinker, a problem solver, a mentor, a know-it-all (knowing at least a little about a lot of things), a music lover, an avid reader and an award-winning competition shooter. He served as President of the Fort Myers Gun Club and was a proud member of the NRA.

On June 14, 1970, he married his high school sweetheart, Linda Helen Artiga, at Epiphany Catholic Church with a reception at Centro Español in Tampa (Ybor City), Florida. They enjoyed many years together raising their children and spending memorable summers in Sanibel, Captiva Island and Pass-a-Grille Beach. Following Linda's stroke, Morris devoted himself to caring for her full-time for 12 years until the time of her passing on May 4, 2018.

Morris leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and curiosity revered by his daughters, Annette Gallo-Gangemi (Greg Gangemi) of Garrison, NY and Jacquelyn Gallo (Bobby Budimerovich) of New York, NY, his grandchildren, Rainer Gangemi and Ava Budimerovich, as well as his sister, Valerie Alvarez and brothers, John and Brad Gallo of Tampa, FL.

For online tributes, you can visit Morris' Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.