Francis "Frank" Gallagher

Francis (Frank) Gallagher, the self-proclaimed mayor of Fort Collins, passed away peacefully of natural causes on May 8, 2026. Born on December 2, 1948 in Philadelphia, PA, Frank lived a full life of laughter, generosity, and good times with the people he loved.

After serving his country in the Army National Guard, Frank spent his time with family traveling between Philadelphia and California. During one of his road trips, Frank’s VW bus broke down in Fort Morgan, CO. After hitchhiking to Denver, Frank began working at various kitchens and catering companies. While working as the head chef of a vegetarian Italian restaurant, Frank met a beautiful waitress who became his future wife Christine. The two fell in love, married, and moved to Fort Collins, CO where they opened their own restaurant, the Yellow Submarine.

Over its roughly thirty-two years of operation, The Yellow Submarine developed an almost cultlike following. The restaurant was featured twice in The Coloradoan, catered many parties, and fed countless people. The restaurant became synonymous with Frank, and his infectious laughter paired with his delicious food created lasting friendships with his loyal customers.

Outside of the restaurant, Frank loved to golf and spend time with his friends and family. Frank’s larger than life personality coupled with his contagious laugh brought him friends wherever he went.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Christine; his son, Nevin, and daughter-in-law, Rachel; his daughter, Kate, and son-in-law, Jon; and his four cherished grandchildren, Gwen, Flynn, Ellis, and Easton. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Jim, Pat, Betsy, and Eileen.

As a parting gift from Frank and the Yellow Sub, we would like to share the “Them Things” recipe. First, wet the four edges of a wonton wrapper. Next, place approximately one and a half slices of Monterey Jack cheese in the center, and fold the wonton wrapper corners over the cheese while wetting the edges to seal (don’t make it too tight!). Once sealed, let air dry for 5-10 minutes then deep fry to a golden brown (or for the millennials out there, brush the exterior with butter/oil and air fry until the exterior is golden brown). Finally, dip in Pace Picante (medium preferably) and enjoy!

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you have a beer with a friend and share some good jokes.