Kathleen Joan Callanan

Kathleen J. Callanan, 84, of North Fort Myers, Florida, passed away suddenly on January 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance, kindness, friendship, and an unyielding curiosity about the world. She was born on February 10, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, to her late parents, John and Grace Callanan.

An accomplished electrical engineer, a former Maryknoll Sister of St. Dominic, a missionary, business owner, author, lecturer, and world-renowned expert in genetic genealogy, Kathleen’s achievements spanned multiple fields over an exceptional lifetime that inspired countless people. Kathleen was a pioneering force, breaking glass ceilings and forging a path for future generations of women. She was a selfless soul who gave freely of her time and talents, lifting others up in everything she did. Ahead of her time, Kathleen challenged conventions, shattered barriers, and influenced countless others to follow in her groundbreaking footsteps.

From an early age, Kathleen demonstrated a love of learning that shaped her life. She pursued higher education at the University of Michigan, the University of Hawaii, and the St. Joseph Institute for Japanese Studies in Tokyo. While working as an Acoustical Engineer for Hazeltine Corporation, she completed graduate studies in physics at Northeastern University in Boston, where she designed sonar transducers under U.S. Navy contract.

Her early career as an electrical engineer was groundbreaking. At Boeing, Kathleen made significant contributions and co-authored several technical papers on integrated circuit device development. She achieved the distinction of being one of the first foreigners to deliver a technical presentation in Japanese to the Japan Physical Society at Nagoya, Japan—an extraordinary accomplishment for her time. Her efforts to promote engineering as a career for women led to her election to the College of Fellows of the Society of Women Engineers. Kathleen was also a life member of professional organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers, The Association of Old Crows, The Quarter Century Wireless Association, and The American Radio Relay League.

In addition to her engineering career, Kathleen spent time as a missionary, dedicating herself to service and faith. These experiences profoundly influenced her later pursuits and remained a cornerstone of her character.

After retiring from engineering in 1995 to care for her beloved mother, Kathleen transitioned into new roles that combined her curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit. She owned and operated an internet consulting business during the early days of the internet, helping clients navigate the emerging online landscape.

Her retirement marked the beginning of her later career, focusing on genetic genealogy. Her ancestry work transformed lives. Kathleen’s expertise brought clarity, joy, and connection to countless families, offering them a sense of belonging and pride in their heritage. Kathleen focused on using DNA to uncover hidden cousins, as she worked diligently to connect with her own lost Irish ancestors.

Kathleen joined the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in 1999 through her patriot ancestor, Pvt. Martin McNary of Connecticut. Her extensive career as an electrical engineer, missionary, DNA expert, author and beyond uniquely prepared her for the leadership roles she undertook within DAR. As Registrar from 2000 to 2005, she applied her unparalleled research skills to help prospective members document their lineage, often uncovering connections others couldn’t find. Later, as Chapter Regent and State Librarian for the Florida Society, Kathleen combined her passion for history, her talent for inspiring others, and her dedication to service to preserve the legacy of Revolutionary War patriots. Her life's work, fueled by curiosity and a profound sense of purpose, made her an extraordinary leader and mentor in the lineage societies she so deeply cherished.

Kathleen often described her final career as the most rewarding of all because it funneled all her previous experiences, training, and spiritual fortitude into one powerful force. She saw her work at the cutting edge of genealogy as a way to help others unlock their identities and explore their ancestral heritage in deeply meaningful and transformative ways.

Kathleen’s life was filled with simple joys and deep relationships. She was an avid reader who could devour books at an astonishing pace and a spirited bingo player who cherished the camaraderie as much as the game. Stamatis Restaurant in North Fort Myers, Florida, was a second home to her, where countless meals with dear friends brought laughter and love to her days.

She lived for her family, taking endless pride in her beloved nieces and nephews: Elizabeth, Barbara, Robert, William, and the late Grace, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by dozens of great-nieces and great-great-nieces and nephews, whose love and admiration brought her immense happiness. Kathleen was preceded in death by her younger sister, Barbara, and is survived by her sister, Patricia.

As a writer, Kathleen shared her knowledge and passion through her books on genetic genealogy, ensuring her insights will continue to inspire and educate others. Her friends and family will remember her for her wit, warmth, and wisdom—qualities that made her both a confidante and a source of strength to all who knew her.

Kathleen was a longstanding member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in North Fort Myers, where her faith remained a cornerstone of her life.

Her passing leaves a profound void in the lives of so many, but her legacy of love, learning, and laughter will endure. To honor Kathleen’s memory, we encourage you to explore her books and “keep the speaker speaking.”

Kathleen, you were one of a kind. Your heart beat for the service of others, and may your brilliant soul rest in peace.