Robert A. Gallo, , Retired Mushroom Grower

Robert Allen "Bobby" Gallo, Sr., 69, of Reading, died May 9, 2011 in the Reading Hospital and Medical Center while surrounded by his family and close friends.

He was the loving husband of Beverly Ann (Vath) Gallo, whom he married June 11, 1971.

Born in Reading, he was a son of Florence (Valeriano) Gallo of Temple and the late Anthony Gallo.

Robert was the owner of Gallo Mushroom Company, Temple for 35 years, retiring in 2000.

He was also a part-owner and former board member of Ontelaunee Farms, Temple.Robert was a member of St. Margaret's Roman Catholic Church, Reading.

He was a member of the Saint Marco Society, Temple where he was a former board member.

Robert was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies; Philadelphia Eagles and anything that had to do with racing.

He worked for many years for numerous racing "pit crews" at the former Fairground.

Robert loved golfing anytime at any course with family and friends.

He is also the proud father of five children: Robert A. Jr., husband of Tammy T. (Rubright) Gallo of Wyomissing; Robert M. Birmingham, husband of Amy P. (Wentling) Birmingham of Spring Township; Lori A. (Birmingham), wife of Joseph P. Ferrari of Sinking Spring; Dominic A., husband of Jessica A. (Aneson) Gallo of Philadelphia and Kristen N. (Gallo), wife of Eric D. Knudsen of Wyomissing.

Other survivors include a sister, Sandra J. (Gallo), wife of Richard Butz of Fleetwood.

He was a loving grandfather to five children: Katharine M. Gallo; Ann M. Birmingham; Kyra P. Birmingham; David R. Birmingham and Eva L. Gallo.

Robert's passion was his family, he never missed any of his childrens' events and loved to follow all of the activities of his grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 11:00 am in St. Margaret's R.C. Church, 925 Centre Avenue, Reading. Viewings will be held Wednesday evening 6:30 - 8:00 pm in Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale and Thursday morning 10:00 - 11:00 am in the Church. Burial will be in Gethsemane Cemetery, Muhlenberg Township.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Margaret's School, 925 Centre Avenue, Reading, PA 19601. For online condolences, visit www.christfuneralhome.com