Robert Michael Callahan

Robert Michael Callahan, 89, passed away peacefully with his children by his side on October 19, 2016 at St. Peter's Hospital in Albany, NY. Born in Stamford, CT on April 30, 1927 to Patrick and Mary Harrington Callahan, he was educated at St John's School and Stamford High School. He was a lifelong Stamford resident before moving to Newtown, CT with his wife Doris, in 2006.

Bob was a 1945 graduate of Stamford High School where he was a standout catcher for the SHS baseball team. He took great pride that his senior year team posted a 19-0 record, the only undefeated season for the school. After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp to serve his country. Upon returning home, he joined the Stamford Fire Department where he rose to the rank of Deputy Fire Chief. After 42 years of service to the City of Stamford, he retired in 1992.

Bob married Doris Ann Sandow on April 14, 1951 with whom he spent 60 happy years before her death in 2011. Together they devoted themselves to raising and educating their 6 children in Stamford. Bob's family meant everything to him. Nothing gave him more pleasure than watching his three sons compete in high school football, hockey and baseball. He was an avid fisherman, enjoying many outings on LI Sound blue fishing with family and friends. He also loved West Point tailgating and following his favorite teams, the NY Yankees and Giants.

Bob is survived by five of his six beloved children, Barbara (Barry) Lee of San Anselmo, CA, Beth Callahan of Slingerlands, NY, Timothy (Laura) Callahan of Wilton, CT, Terence (Kelly) Callahan of Franklin, MA, and Robert (Carrie) Callahan of Scarborough, ME as well as his son-in-law, David Cooper of Newtown, CT. He is also survived by 18 loving grandchildren who were the lights of his life: Alexandra and Caroline Lee, Emily (Brendan) Dunn, Lauren and Colleen Rarich, Siobhan, Ian and Colin Cooper, Connor, Caitlin and Owen Callahan, Christopher, Cara, Michael and Mary Callahan, Jack, Katie and Sarah Callahan.

Besides his wife, Bob was predeceased in 2014 by his beloved daughter, Robin, who was completely devoted to both he and Doris while they lived in Newtown. He is also predeceased by his brothers, John, Neil and Eugene and his sister, Margaret.

Calling hours will be held Sunday, October 23, 2016 from 4-8pm at the Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, 2900 Summer St., Stamford. A Mass of Christian Burial will celebrate Bob's life at 10am at St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 1184 Newfield Ave., Stamford on Monday, October 24, 2016. Burial to immediately follow at St John's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Americares at 88 Hamilton Ave., Stamford, Ct 06902.