Local Top Gun celebrates 100 years
By Nicholette Carlson
Staff Writer
Annie Gallahan, better known as Top Gun to some during her years at South Shore Golf Club, is getting ready to celebrate her 100th birthday.
Born July 7, 1920, Gallahan moved to Syracuse with her husband when they purchased the B & K Drive-In. After they sold the business, she began her career working in the pro shop at South Shore Golf Club. While there, some of her favorite memories are working with the golf pros and working with the kids. As an unofficial grandma to many of the children who received lessons, the kids would ensure they came up and got a hug from Gallahan on each visit. The nickname Top Gun was given to her by the group of golf pros she worked with, particularly Jim Atwood, the pro at Tippecanoe Lake Country Club.
Her husband passed away in 1992, and Gallahan travels between Syracuse and Peru with her daughter, Tami. While living here full-time, Gallahan was a member of Calvary United Methodist Church in Syracuse and also a member of Martha’s Circle.
When asked how she remains so young at 100, Gallahan gave all the credit away, stating, “God’s been so good to me more than anything.” She also is intent on remaining active. She worked at the golf club until she was 89 years old. Each of her jobs kept her on her feet and moving, even keeping up with the local men at the golf club.
Growing up as the only girl, right in the middle between six brothers, she also believes made her strong.
Gallahan will be having a birthday party to celebrate her 100 years from 4-9 p.m. Saturday, July 11, at Maennerchor, 154 S. Wabash St., Peru. In preparation for her big party, she came to get her hair and nails done at Picket Fences, her favorite local salon.