John P. Callanan

Jack Callanan, 72, of Pompano Beach, Florida, and former resident of New City and Lake George, New York passed away on March 23, 2012 after a long and courageous battle with kidney disease. His final days were spent surrounded by his family and friends as he was taken into God’s loving arms.

Jack was born on May 29, 1939, the son of John and Florence (Flynn) Callanan, and was raised in Washington Heights, New York. He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years Maureen McMahon Callanan and their 4 children John (Kim), Christine McCarthy (Robert), Michael, and Brian (Emily). Jack was blessed with 14 grandchildren that he absolutely cherished and adored. Connor, Kristi, Kayla, Kerri, Kiera, Colin, Carson (John), Michael and Meagan (Christine), Michael, Caitlin, Jacqueline (Michael), Caroline and Jack (Brian) will forever treasure their precious memories of “Papa” in their hearts. He was predeceased by his brother-in-laws Patrick and Vincent McMahon, and sister-in-law Patricia McMahon. He is survived by brother-in laws Michael and Joseph McMahon, and sister-in laws Cheryl and Flavia McMahon. His life was also fulfilled with many nieces and nephews that all loved “Uncle Jack.” He considered them to be like children of his own. Jack also leaves behind many dear friends especially his lifelong friends Tony and Marion Bieber.

Jack honourably served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corp and had a great love for his country. After returning home in 1960, he went on to work for Steamfitters Union Local #638 for 34 years, becoming a life member. He married the love of his life, Maureen, on October 20, 1962 and they settled in New City, New York to raise their 4 children. He found great joy and pride from being a lifetime member of the New City Fire Engine Co. #1 and was elected to serve on the board as Fire Commissioner. He was also a lifetime member of the Rockland County Fireman’s Association and the Haverstraw B.P.O. Elks #877, and was a member of the American Legion, Deerfield Beach, FL.

Jack had a passion for life and lived it to the fullest, he especially enjoyed the time he spent with his family and friends at Lake George - it was truly his second love. He showed great courage and perseverance and had an inner strength like no other. He could light up a room with his infectious smile, and even in his last days, he did what he did best and taught his family and friends to live life to the fullest.

His family would like to thank the staff of Holy Cross Hospital in Ft. Lauderdale, FL for their compassion and good care during his final weeks. Special thanks to Dr. Revilla, Dr. Polito, and the Ft. Lauderdale Artificial Kidney Center for their dedication, friendship, and guidance during this difficult time.

The Callanan family will greet family and friends on Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9pm at Higgins Funeral Home, #321 South Main Street, New City, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Francis of Assisi, #128 Parrott Road, West Nyack, NY 10994 on Friday at 10:15 am. Interment services will follow at Ascension Cemetery, #650 Saddle River Road, Monsey, NY. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in memory of Jack can be made to New City Fire Engine Co. No. 1, #15 Maple Avenue, New City, NY 10956 or St. Francis of Assisi Church. An online guest book is available at www.mjhigginsnewcity.com.