Michael Callahan, 66

Callahan, Honorable Michael J. -Governor’s Councillor on Jan. 6, the final day of his official tenure, after a brief battle with cancer, died at 66. Devoted son of the late Gerald and Dorothy (Brown) Callahan. Cherished brother of Gerald Callahan Jr. and wife Marie of California, Dorothy MacAdams and husband Jerry of North Reading, John Callahan and wife Rosalind of Wyoming, Joseph Callahan of Boston, James Callahan and wife MaryAnn of Lowell, Maureen Sampson and husband John of Wilmington, and Matthew Callahan and wife Yan Li of China, the late David Callahan. Dear brother-in-law of Louise Callahan of New Hampshire. Also survived by many devoted nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and three Godchildren. A lifelong Medford resident who also enjoyed many hours in every city and town in the Commonwealth as well as the Southern part of his district – Florida, where he was always welcomed as ” America’s Guest.” Councillor Callahan was a proud Veteran of the U.S. Army, who served honorably in the Vietnam War. A devoted public servant, Mike served as Legislative Aide to State Senators Dennis McKenna and John Bullock, Special Assistant Racing Commissioner, and Chairman of the Medford Consumer Advisory Commission.

He was first elected to the Governor’s Council in 1998, representing with distinction the people of the Sixth Council District. More than 500 Judges and Clerks had their appointments approved by the late Councillor. The Master of Ceremonies of the annual Mistletoe Society, Councillor Callahan’s sharp wit and comedic gifts were more entertaining than most expert comics. He shared his talents to lift the souls of thousands of audiences at charitable and political events. He was known affectionately by his many friends and colleagues as the “Shoehorn”, “Toastmaster”, or “Mikey C.”

Funeral from the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main Street, Medford Wednesday at 9 AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Francis of Assisi Church, 441 Fellsway West, Medford at 10 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Tuesday1-9. Services will conclude with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to Mass General Hospital Cancer Ctr., 55 Fruit St., Boston, MA 02114.

“Don’t worry if you can’t make my funeral; I’m not coming to yours!”

– Obituary from Dello Russo Funeral Service