Margaret Gallian

Margaret “Marge” I. Kleptz-Gallian, formerly of Buena Park, California, passed away peacefully with her daughters, Mary and Barbara, and niece Roxanna, at her side.

Marge was born on March 20, 1925, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Barbara (Heber) Kleptz-Clark and Andrew Kleptz. She was raised in the Catholic faith, a devotion she carried with her throughout her life.

On July 13, 1943, Marge married the love of her life, Robert R. Gallian. Together, they shared an extraordinary 72 years of marriage until his passing in 2015. In 1955, they moved to California with their three young children—Barb, Mary, and Stan—where they later welcomed three more sons: George, Don, and Rick.

Marge was a talented seamstress who lovingly made much of her own clothing, including her daughter’s wedding dress. She also enjoyed crocheting and took great pride in creating baby blankets for her grandchildren. After Bob’s retirement in 1982, the couple embraced their love of travel, exploring the United States and Canada in their motorhome. They also enjoyed memorable trips including a Panama Canal cruise and visits to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington D.C.

After living in Lakewood for many years, they moved to the Fountain of Youth Spa near the Salton Sea, where Marge discovered her passion for horseshoes, winning several tournaments. Later, they settled in Hemet and then Buena Park, California, where she lived until the age of 98. She spent her final years at Atria Senior Living in Newport Beach.

Marge and Bob were deeply proud of the large, loving family they built together.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert; her stepfather, Harry L. Clark; her sons, Stan Gallian and Rick Gallian; her great-granddaughter, Katie Peterson; her siblings, Joe, Frank, Chic, and Jim Kleptz, Mary Ann Wheatley, and her infant twin sister, Eileen Kleptz.

Marge is lovingly remembered by her children: Barbara Gallian; Mary Heil (Michael); George Gallian (Barbara), all of California; and Donald Gallian (Jennifer) of Texas. She also leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will cherish her memory.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Atria Senior Living and Geiss Med Hospice for their compassionate care and kindness.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no visitation.  Internment will take place at Riverside National Military Cemetery where she will be laid to rest with Bob .  A family Celebration of Life is planned for a future date.