Rest in Peace, Seamus Garrahy

I (Crigger) had the pleasure of meeting Seamus Garrahy at the end of the DC to Gettysburg Face of America ride in 2010. The ride ended at his house where all the riders and support staff were welcome with open arms and the biggest barbeque you’ve ever seen. He was an incredibly patriotic man who will be missed.

From OORAH.net:

James L. “Seamus” Garrahy, 70, 30 Plank Road, Gettysburg, PA died Monday, January 9, 2012 at his home.

He was born June 29, 1941 in Chicago, IL the son of the late John R. and Marie Lydon Garrahy. He is survived by his wife Linda Bell.

Jim was a veteran of the US Marine Corps and remained active in Marine affairs for the rest of his life. Through the years he has hosted thousands of active and retired veterans at his home in what had become known as “Steaks and Beers”. Seamus has also for the last five years hosted the finish line and post race event for the “Face of America – Wounded Warriors Bike Ride”.

Jim owned and operated “Jim Garrahy’s Fudge Kitchen”. What started as a single store on Baltimore Street grew over the years into 78 different locations in the United States, England and Scotland. Headquartered in Gettysburg the company was sold in 2009.

Seamus lived a full life filled with adventures, friendships and fun. For a year he served as a crew mate aboard the HMS Bounty tall ship sailing the Atlantic. He founded a singing group known as the “Sault Antlers Men’s Choir” singing Irish drinking songs. They recorded an album and later were a fixture in the area every St. Patrick’s Day.

In addition to his wife he is survived by two step-children; Jessica Sparaco and her husband Gerard of Arizona, Joshua Rutan of Ohio, two step grandchildren; Haley Rutan, Avery Rutan, a sister, Nancy Crawford of Chicago, IL, a brother, John R. “Jack” Garrahy, Jr. of Chicago, IL and a number of nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service and celebration of Seamus life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, 825 College Blvd, Suite 102, Oceanside, CA 92057 or the Adams County SPCA, 11 Goldenville Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325. Online obituary and condolences available at monahanfuneralhom.com. The Monahan Funeral Home in Gettysburg are in charge of the arrangements.

View Photos of Seamus’ Events Here

Monahan Funeral Home
125 Carlisle Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325
717-334-2414
717-334-0103 – fax
www.monahanfuneralhome.com

One Comment

1. 

   Blackfive

   January 17, 2012 at 10:51 am

   Seamus was one of the truly great people in this world. He worked with me behind the scenes on so many wounded and military support issues. “The Corporal’s” patriotism, generosity and humility had no bounds. I could go on and on.

   Godspeed, my brother.

   Semper Fi…

   Reply