Around the world, when someone hears the word “Gallo” they immediately think of wine. At Gateway Greens, the community thinks of popular Phil Gallo and his wife Cindy.
Phil, originally from Michigan, has always demonstrated a strong work ethic and a love for sports and community. Growing up as the second of four children, he was dedicated from a young age—delivering newspapers at age 12 and actively participating in high school sports like baseball and basketball. He wisely decided to deliver The Macomb Daily in suburban Detroit, rather than The Detroit News because the News’ Sunday edition was heavy and he would have had to work every day of the week. Phil thrived in a very large Baby Boomer high school playing baseball and basketball while being elected into the National Honor Society.
Phil’s love for baseball led to two memorable events. First, he met his wife at a local bar after a softball game. (Phil played six days a week!) Their mutual group of friends hung out together until Phil finally asked Cindy on a date eight months later. They married in 1982.
Second, Phil’s father was a good friend of the famous Major League Baseball manager Joe Altobelli. When Phil was 14, Coach Joe invited him and a friend to a Toledo Mud Hens game. The coach dressed them in uniforms, gave them five swings at throws from a minor league pitcher, and let them take infield practice. The boys were thrilled. Then, as they walked off the field two youngsters asked for their autographs and they both happily obliged!
Phil initially studied engineering but discovered that he enjoyed working with his hands more, which led him to a successful career in electrical work. Over the years, he transitioned from an electrician into driving a service truck. He eventually became a service manager and helped grow a major electrical service department from zero to over $20 million in revenue.
Cindy is a boating enthusiast and avid traveler. In fact, the Gallos have taken more than 30 cruises! She also enjoys live music and loves to dance. The couple also enjoy dining out at local favorites such as The Gateway Clubhouse, Connors Steak & Seafood and Fresh Catch Bistro, often sharing lively conversations and fun moments with friends and family.
Their children—daughters Ashley and Lauren—are a proud part of their lives, and their family grew even more with the birth of grandson James Phillip in Tampa, a visit they make weekly and cherish.
It is interesting how Phil and Cindy discovered Gateway. They looked at numerous homes and Phil was becoming discouraged. Cindy and the realtor urged him to look at two more homes. Phil hated the first since it had no backyard. Gateway Greens did! He was enamored when he looked out the slider doors and gazed upon the 16th hole fairway. Mark Roberts was next door and witnessed Phil’s thrill. He instantly knew the Gallos would be his new neighbors in 2015.
The couple are vibrant members of the Gateway Greens community, known for their friendly faces, warm personalities, and active lifestyles. Whether it’s enjoying a game of bocce, golfing, playing trivia and bridge, or simply sharing a good meal with neighbors, they embody the spirit of community and friendship.
If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting them yet, be sure to introduce yourself—they’re always happy to say hello and share their story!
