Former Crimson Managing Editor William R. Galeota Jr. '70, a partner at the Shea and Gardner law firm, in Washington, D.C., drowned May 31 in a Delaware Bay boating accident. He was 50.

Galeota, born in Kingston, N.Y., was a lawyer later in life, but he was always a journalist at heart, according to friend and former Crimson President James M. Fallows '70.

"He was an absolutely unforgettable character," Fallows said. "He always seemed to be about the same age--40."

When Galeota wrote for The Crimson, he was known at 14 Plympton St. for his abrupt demeanor. Fallows remembers him as "a 1940s-style reporter" with his sleeves rolled up and ready for any story.

"He had this grownup newsroom air like a gruff grizzly bear," Fallows said.

Those close to him knew that behind this facade, was a principled, loyal and affectionate man.

Crimson Production Supervisor Emeritus Patrick R. Sorrento, who has worked with The Crimson staff since 1967, said Galeota was a "newspaper man through and through" and "a damn nice guy."

While Galeota wrote for The Crimson, he covered the House system and city issues.

As managing editor of The Crimson during the University Hall takeover in 1969, Galeota will be remembered as one of the lone conservative voices on the paper during the turbulent era.