John Alex Gallays, 72, of St. Brieux, Saskatchewan, passed away on July 30, 2026, following a motorcycle accident in Wyoming, USA. He passed away doing exactly what he loved: exploring the open road.

Born in Melfort to Arsene and Alice Gallays, John was the youngest of 12 children. He spent most of his life in St. Brieux, a community he deeply valued and actively helped shape. A gifted craftsman who loved working with his hands. He used this skill to own and operate JAG Builders Ltd. His legacy is woven into the very landscape of the area; he built many of the beautiful homes around St. Brieux Lake, but perhaps his most treasured project was the massive playset he constructed for his daughters.

John had an insatiable passion for adventure. Whether he was at the helm of his speedboat, exploring in his side-by-side, or ultimately cruising on his motorcycle. He lived life in motion. His love for riding took him across Canada and the United States, from the remote northern roads of Tuktoyaktuk to the shores of Newfoundland, down to Florida, and through the breathtaking curves of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Wherever his travels took him, John loved meeting new people and sharing his incredible journeys through his captivating photographs and storytelling.

He will be deeply missed by the love of his life Sheila Beck, his life partner and wife; his beloved daughters, April Gallays (Stephanie Schiller) and Jillian Gallays (Scott McCubbing); and his cherished grandson, Hudson McCubbing. He is also survived by his siblings Aurore (Jack) McCleary, Lorraine Marksteiner, Dolores (Ray) Fagnou, Therese (Bill) Mulford, Phillip (Eleanor) Gallays,and Rosemarie Gallays (Gary), along with many nieces, nephews, and friends from all walks of life. He was predeceased by his parents, Arsene and Alice.

A Funeral Mass for John will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 1:00 PM at St. Brieux Roman Catholic Church (204 Barbier Dr., St. Brieux, SK S0K 3V0)

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Canadian Cancer Society.

Arrangements entrusted to Fedusiak Funeral Chapel & Crematorium Ltd. (306)752-3838.

 

• Date : 2026-07-30
• Location : St. Brieux