Posted by XXXXXX on May 7, 2008:

Edward F. Callanan ’48 No. 16613 19 Oct 1925 – 15 Feb 2005 Died in Quincy, MA Interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA Catherine and Henry Callanan, served in the Army for 26 years. His assignments took him to Germany, where two of his sons were born; Ft. Riley, KS; Washington, DC (three times!); Schofield Barracks, HI; Ft. Monroe, VA; and Ft. McPherson, GA. He retired in 1974 with the rank of colonel. As an infantry officer, Ed served in a variety of command positions, culminating in command of the 1st Basic Training Brigade at Ft. Polk, LA. Following several more positions in CONARC and the fledgling Forces Command, he decided to spend more time with his wife and began a new career. After earning a master’s degree in accounting, Ed began teaching at Georgia State University, Mercer College, and Oglethorpe University. He taught for over 20 years and retired from the Community College System of Georgia. Throughout his teaching career, he received many awards and accolades, including selection as the prestigious National Community College Accounting Associate Professor of the Year. Throughout his life, Ed focused on working hard and trying to imbue the right ideals and virtues in his sons. For that, we are forever thankful. He lived his life grounded in his faith and the West Point motto of “Duty, Honor, Country.” At the same time, he knew that he would not be successful without the support and love of his wife Ann, who was always there for him. As he battled cancer, Ed realized he would sooner or later lose the battle. Yet throughout his illness he maintained a positive attitude and never let it consume his life. He continued to smile and laugh about life. He never complained about the fact that he was so sick. He faced each day with a resolution to be thankful for one more day to be with his wife, his sons and daughters-in-law, and his grandchildren, who always gave him so much pleasure and joy. We all miss this great human being who gave so much of himself to lead, train, and mentor so many people in his quiet and dignified manner. We miss his humor and his intelligence. Yet each person who has come into contact with him remembers the impression he left on our lives. His memory sustains us until we meet again.

admin