John Anthony Callahan

John Anthony Callahan, born July 7, 1939 in Newark, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2023.

Graduate of Newark St. Francis class of 1957, Eastern Kentucky University class of 1961.  After college, he served his country as a lieutenant in the United States Army, stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky from 1961-1964.

Preceded in death by parents John and Rozella Callahan, brother Tom Callahan (Lakewood, OH), brother-in-law Richard Johnson (Lakewood, OH) and brother-in-law Frank Walther (Newark, OH). On November 5, 2021, John lost the love of his life, his bride of 60 years, Shirley (Johnson) Callahan.

Nothing was more important to John than his family.  He is survived by children Mike Callahan (Lake Orion, MI), Mark (Patsy) Callahan (Dublin, OH), Karen Callahan (Pickerington, OH), Kevin (Peggy) Callahan (Hinsdale, IL), Steve (Matt) Callahan (Los Angeles, CA) and Katie (Mike) Finch (Gahanna, OH).He is also survived by sister Rosemary Walther (Newark, Ohio), and sisters-in-law JoAnn Callahan (Lakewood, OH), and Kathy Johnson (Lakewood, OH). He was affectionately called “GC” by his 11 grandchildren: John (Elizabeth), Rachel, Christy, Meghan, Jack, April, Courtney, Jake, Annie, Ryan, and Josh.

Faith was incredibly important to John.  He was an active member of St. Pius Parish, including being an usher, Eucharistic Minister and helping to establish the Pre-Cana program.

John loved being a salesman, working as one for 59 years. His outgoing personality made him a natural for a career in sales.  John made friends wherever he went.  He was a sports enthusiast.  He was a coach, athletic director, referee, and a fan of all sports-especially of his grandchildren’s teams and the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Visitation will be held at Egan-Ryan Funeral Home, 403 E Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215 Wednesday April 26, 2023 from 4-7pm Funeral Mass at St. Pius X Catholic Church 1051 Waggoner Rd. Reynoldsburg, OH 43068, Thursday April 27, 2023 at 10:30am.  Entombment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. 

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