Great souls extend their hands to help others in their time of need; their influence radiates far beyond their own existence, touching countless lives with the light of their wisdom, compassion, and courage.
Obituary
Maria (Vesely) Gallo, of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed away peacefully after a brief battle with cancer on Monday, February 5, 2024, with her loving husband by her side. Born and raised in McCook, Illinois, and a graduate of J. Sterling Morton High School, her life’s journey led her to Port Charlotte, Florida. She later pursued nursing at The University of South Florida, earning her Bachelor’s of Nursing Degree. She then went on to earn her Master’s in Oncology Nursing from her alma mater. Since 2010, Maria has dedicated her considerable talents as an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner with Florida Cancer Specialists in Port Charlotte, where she worked daily with cancer patients in need. She was brave, honorable, and a beacon of light to everyone who was privileged to know her.
Maria was a loving wife to Joe for nearly 30 years, a devoted mother to her beloved son, Michael, a much-adored sister, aunt, stepmom, and step-grandma. Her sense of humor was infectious, and she was uniquely compassionate. Maria's dedication to helping others extended beyond her professional life; she was always ready to offer advice and assistance to a friend, family member, or even a complete stranger who required medical guidance. She was a loyal friend to all who knew her and will be deeply missed by her colleagues, innumerable patients, and their family members who owe so much to her diligent care and expertise in her capacity to listen, to help, and to heal.
While she was passionate about her career, Maria was happiest creating memories with Joe, Michael, and her beautiful extended family. She and her husband were avid travelers and spent their time visiting family and exploring the United States; flying to places of interest and exploring the area on a road trip; cruising to the Caribbean and Alaska; and spending time watching sunsets.
Maria was preceded in death by her mother, Theresa (Sipich) Vesely, and father Anton Vesely.
Maria is survived by her husband and soul mate, Joseph Gallo IV and son, Michael Vollmar; step-sons, Joseph Gallo V, Anthony Gallo and step-daughter, Angela (Gallo) Medlar; her step-grandchildren Joseph Gallo VI, Lina Gallo, Angelo Gallo, and Luigi Gallo and great-grandchildren; her sister Marla (Vesely) Carson, brother-in-law, Rick Carson; niece Andrea and nephew Mitchell; Michael Vesely, sister-in-law Cristine; niece Paula and, nephew Neil. Maria is also survived by her mother-in-law, Clara (Gallo) Multzer-O’Naghten, and father-in-law, Jacques Multzer-O’Naghten, as well as countless cherished friends and family members.
Services to celebrate Maria’s life and legacy will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home, 9400 Indian Springs Cemetery, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. All who knew and loved her are most welcome.
In lieu of flowers, to honor Maria and her commitment to assisting others, we encourage you to donate to the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation. This organization was close to Maria's heart because it provides non-medical, financial aid to adults in need who are undergoing cancer treatment, enabling them to concentrate on battling cancer. If you would like to make a memorial donation in Maria's honor and support individuals like those she cared for, please visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E163958&id=315
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Memory Wall
We were married for almost thirty years, and every single one of them was filled with happiness and laughter. Maria had a great sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest days, and her laughter was like music to my ears. She was my soulmate. I miss her so much.
Maria’s ability to drop a line from a movie into a conversation was impeccable. I’d always try to guess which one it was and vice versa. She was better at it. This was an everyday event. Joy and laughter, a simple pleasure.
We went on so many adventures together, driving through 46 states in our quest to see all of America. Maria’s company made every mile special. We only had four states left to explore, but now, those plans will never be fulfilled. OK, ND, SD, WY.
I find comfort in remembering all the times we spent on the road, with Maria as my co-pilot. She was amazing at finding nice hotels (wow, could she maximize Hilton points!) and cozy restaurants, turning our trips into unforgettable experiences. We never argued during our travels; it was always laughter and appreciation for being with each other.
Losing Maria has left a huge void in my life. The pain in my heart reminds me of the light that’s gone out. But I take solace in believing that she was like an Angel sent by God, gracing my life and others for a precious time. God had called this Angel back, her work was done. This belief is what gets me through the day; it’s the only thing that makes sense.
Her memory will always be with me. She was funny, clever, and endlessly caring. Even though she’s no longer here, her spirit will guide me, and her smile will always light up my way.
I’ll love her forever, and her absence will always be felt deeply. But I’m thankful for the love we shared and the memories we made. Maria’s kindness and joy will never be forgotten. Until we meet again, my dear wife, know that you’ll always be cherished and missed more than words can express.
-Loving Husband, Joe
Friends and family…I invite you all to please contribute your memories to Maria’s memorial page. -Joe
And you never forgot Maria. How could you? She was kind, cautious, and infectious. I think of long phone conversations in our early teen years where we talked about nothing and everything. She was always waiting for the right moment to speak truth with facetious wit.
While it has been close to 45 years since our last meeting, every June 20th, I still shout out, “Happy Birthday Maria Vesely!... wherever you are.” I will continue doing so going forward.
When I read about her, I think of how much she accomplished in her life and the legacy she left behind. I breathe a sense of gratitude when I think of where we all started out and then finding out through the years of a precious life well lived.
Grace and peace to her siblings, Mike and Marla, her husband Joe, and their beautiful family.
Maria used to sign her cards to me “Love, Your Stepmonster” I think she wrote it as a joke, she knew I never felt that way about her. In 30 years, I don’t remember a single time we fought or raised our voices at each other. We had some great times and went on some memorable vacations.
Maria took great care of my dad when his condition looked to be terminal. She did everything in her power to make sure he had the best care, the best doctors and got into a medical trial…I think she is a big reason why my dad is here today and I’m eternally grateful for that. She never hesitated to answer a question for any of our family or my friends about a health concern and she helped a lot of our family through some very tough times.
Maria, my dad and I would play Wordle everyday…I know Maria wasn’t the champion of her sibling wordle group but she was the champion of ours. She was always the one to beat and I have to admit, I was always happy when I beat her score.
We used the absolute worst pictures of each other for the profile pics on our phones so we’d always get a good laugh when either of us text or called. We text back and forth in giphys like it was a language and we spoke to each other in movie quotes.
She was never a stepmonster to me but she was more than a stepmom. She was my friend too.
Miss her terribly. 💔
Sharon Winesett
She was one of the very first nurses I met at Fawcett when I volunteered there in middle school, she spearheaded my career. I’m heartbroken
Five weeks ago when our nightmare began, you never said “why me”, only “why not me”. Your strength and courage astounded me until your last breath. To say I will miss you is inadequate, to say I will love you forever, is an understatement.
I was always so very proud of you and proud to call you my sister. You probably saved my life 2 years ago when you made me go to the ER and helped guide me and so many dear friends and others through their illnesses with patience and care.
I’ve loved you and will continue to love you forever. Until we meet again sweet angel.
We will miss you Maria, God must have needed a shining light in heaven.
Memorial Details
There will be an opportunity for all to speak at the service if they would like to do so.
To help us plan for the reception, please RSVP if you are attending the service https://fb.me/e/a0h4ET9Gx
9400 Indian Springs Cemetery
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Memorial Service at 1:00 PM
Reception to Follow
Donate
If you would like to make a memorial donation in Maria's honor and support individuals like those she cared for, please visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E163958&id=315
