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Capt. Frank Callahan
Capt. Frank Callahan
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Frank Callahan Obituary
Frank Callahan, 50, was living his dream. As a boy and a young man he had wanted to be a firefighter. In 1970, when he met Angie Lang, the woman who would become his wife, at a party at a volunteer firehouse in Breezy Point, Queens, he had not yet attained that dream.
"He was on the list," Mrs. Callahan recalled, referring to the men and women who had passed the written and physical tests to be firefighters and were waiting for the call. It came a few years after they met. Mr. Callahan was appointed in September 1973. "That job was all he ever wanted," Mrs. Callahan recalled. "That was the best thing that ever happened to him."
In the years that followed, the couple had four children: Harry, now 23; Nora, 21; Peter, 17; and Rose, 13. Mr. Callahan was promoted to captain in 1997 and months later was transferred to Ladder Company 35 on the Upper West Side, but the family did not have any big parties. "He wasn't big on celebrations," Mrs. Callahan said. A quiet man, Mr. Callahan liked to read about the Civil War or World War II. "He'd rather sit and be home," said Mrs. Callahan, an eighth-grade math teacher in Middletown, N.Y.
As the children grew, Mr. Callahan taught them how to ride bicycles and play basketball. But Mrs. Callahan's most cherished memory was when her husband and Harry, then not older than 5, worked together on the exterior of their house in Breezy Point, with Harry helping his father with the hammering. "He was his little helper; wherever Dad went, he went," Mrs. Callahan recalled. "He was very good with his kids that way."
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John Lang
September 11, 2024
I just recently my found out I am related to this hero. He was my uncle. I wish I had gotten to know him. The FDNY are truly the bravest.
Jennifer Frenkil
September 10, 2024
Jennifer Frenkil
September 10, 2024
Jennifer Frenkil
September 10, 2024
Thank you Frank , You are now The Heavenly Hero watching over this forever heartbreak with Angel You and your Lost Company that one Broken / Shattering Day of The Greatest Tragedy for America as the Loss of The Caveman and all , God Bless The Fire Company and crew Lost in 2001
Now You and the Cavemen climbed the stairway to Heaven Together Forever I know !
We Won´t EVER
Rip Amen
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Justin Kieffer
September 11, 2022
This morning the Soldiers and families stationed in Camp Walker, South Korea held a Memorial Run in Honor and Remembrance of all those that we lost that day and I had the Honor of running with your Husband. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless!
Cindy Roe
September 3, 2021
Remembering Frank on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Del Newberry
December 14, 2018
Thank you Frank for your service. I am praying today for your wife and children. We will never forget all of the heroes from that day. Much love from Texas
Alexander A
September 27, 2016
Thank you sir for your sacrifice. May you rest in peace knowing that because of your actions, the loved ones of other were able to go home. Thank you sir.
Chad Poling
April 12, 2014
To The Callahan Family,
I had the honor and privilege to represent and remember Captain Callahan at this years annual stair climb at FDIC. I was very humbled as I thought of the ultimate sacrifice that Captain Callahan made on that Sept. Day. I want you to know that he is not forgotten. His memory lives on. God Bless.
Celeste Callahan
September 11, 2012
To the Callahan family,
Today I was listening to the names of all the victims of the 9/11 attacks when I heard the name "Callahan". After looking up your husband and father, I was stunned at the connection I felt. My father's family moved to New York from Ireland back in the 1880s. My great grandfather was the first fire chief of the Long Island FDNY. I cannot help but think that maybe we are distant family - the coincidence that your husband and father was part of the FDNY as well makes me speechless. I commend what he did 11 years ago today and he will always remain a hero in my eyes. May God bless your family on this 11th anniversary and always.
lowell callahan
March 14, 2012
I was looking for information about my grandfather whose name is Frank Callahan, from Elk Point, South Dakota when I saw this about capt. Frank Callahan I did not know that I might be related to anyone who may have died that day, at the Twin Towers. I was born in 1952 so we are close in age. I understand how you must miss him. my daughter died 7 years ago and I still miss her.
sarah funderburk
October 28, 2011
Hi,
My name is Sarah and I have written and will read an oral report to my 6th grade class on Captain Frank Callahan. We will also have an evening wax museum and I will wear a shirt we purchased from Engine 40/Ladder 35. We needed to chose a hero and I eagerly chose Mr. Callahan. Sincerely, Sarah - 11 years old
Lisa Horsefield
September 11, 2011
I made a donation sponsored a flag on our field of honor for Capt. Frank Callahan. May he rest in peace!
Caroline Hammond
September 9, 2011
With Love & Gratitude
David Colvin
September 4, 2011
For a great man I will never get to meet, Capt. Frank Callahan will forever be on my mind each September. His son, Harry, and our daughter, Joanna, have been together for quite some time now and I hope and pray for their lasting relationship, along with Harry's safety as an NYFD firefighter.
10 years later does not lessen the pain and the thoughts of losing good people like Frank. Do NOT forget what he, and others like him, did on 9-11.
April 29, 2011
god bless you sweetheart
Karen rund
September 11, 2010
In rememberance of Capt Frank Callahan and all of the brave souls who gave their lives on that tragic day in the effort to help others. Your bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Abbey
September 13, 2009
Dear Family,
I did a rememberance ride for 9\11. Before the ride when you register you find cards with all the people who passed on during 9\11. My card was Captain Frank Callahan. It may be far from when he passed but I still want to say,REST IN PEACE CAPTAIN FRANK CALLAHAN!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sicerly,
Abbey age,10
September 11, 2009
September 11, 2009
Captain Frank Callahan
Wtc-ground zero
Vesey-liberty-church-west Sts.
New York, NY 10038
Dear captain Frank Callahan,
I think of you as a hero and a hero to me is a person that risks their own life to save someone that you don’t knows life. I want to thank you for being a hero on September 11, 2001. You put you life on the line to try and save people not caring if you die.
We can not thank you enough for what you did to try and save people from a building that collapse. I heard that your dream was to become a fire fighter and I think that it is cool that your dream was to become a fire fighter and your dream actually came true. Just like you I like to read and learn about World War 2 and the civil war. Just like you taught your kids how to ride bikes and to play basketball my dad taught me how to ride bikes and play basketball.
We will always remember you for ever that you served for our country. Every patriot’s day we will remember you and all the other hero’s from September 11, 2009. So, thank you again for being a hero and risking your life on September 11, 2009.
Augie Murphy
September 11, 2009
September 11, 2009
Capt. Frank Callahan
WTC-Ground Zero
Vesey-Liberty-Church-West Sts.
New York, NY 10038
Dear Capt. Frank Callahan,
I would like to thank you very much for being there for those thousands of people who were in the Twin Towers. It was a very brave and modest thing to do you put your life on the line for others that were more unfortunate.
Your sacrifice for being a firefighter at September 11 must have meant a lot to those survivors who survived which must shown you being the hero not someone in tight spandex but one who gives more than they take.
My class and I will always remember your service and support on that horrible day in New York.
Thanks again.
Sincerely,
Augie Murphy and
2009 Nagel 7th grade
Max Lanyi
September 11, 2009
September 11, 2009
WTC –Ground zero
Vesey-Liberty-Church-West Sts.
New York, NY 10038
Dear Captain Frank Callahan,
I define a hero as a person who puts someone else before themselves. Someone that goes the extra mile just to help someone. Victims of this attack that you saved probably thank you very much for saving their life. You gave your life to save them. On September 11, 2001 a lot of people needed help and you went into the building just to help them. Because of your actions, you are a true hero to me and everyone else.
You were helping tons of people through your life of a firefighter. As a firefighter you protected all of us, and we thank you. I bet you family are missing you. Yours kids probably remember the time you taught them to ride their bicycles and taught them to play basketball. They probably always enjoyed when your family was all together. Your wife Angie and you four kids Nora, Peter, Harry, and Rose will always be proud of you.
We will always remember you and what you did for our country. You had no way of knowing when you went into that building but, you risked your life just to save people you didn’t even know. Every September 11 we will think of you and all you fellow firefighters.
Sincerely,
Max Lanyi
Doug Abraham
February 9, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
September 13, 2008
In loving memory of a true American hero.
Jen F
September 5, 2008
Captain Frank, you were a wonderful man and leader. You spoke softly, but people listened. You had a well-known stare that your men tried to avoid. Most importantly, you were respected by your firefighters, not just the new probies but all the men, even the ones who had been at 40/35 longer than you. Your men were proud that you were their captain, on countless occassions you stuck up for them when you felt they were being wronged by others. They knew that you had their backs, and as their officer they felt protected. That's a feeling that not all men feel, they knew they were fortunate. You always were wanting more action during you shifts. You didn't want to just be sitting around, you wanted to be productive. You will never be forgotten, and stories of your life will repeatedly be told throughout time. I love the story of yours when you asked one of your men what that elaborate desk was in the lobby, it turning out to be simply the conceirge desk. That's a classic story. Thank you for being the strong leader that you were, and being so noble on every single day that you risked your life in the effort of saving others. Thank you for protecting not only New York City but all of America on September 11, 2001.
Doug Abraham
February 9, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Doug Abraham
February 9, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Nancy Sahlberg
November 13, 2006
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006
Kristine
October 19, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Travis Callahan
September 8, 2006
Dear Mrs Callahan,
Please know that we here in South Louisiana know that Frank was indeed a hero. Thank God for people like him.
Travis
P Tabbernor
September 3, 2006
In memory....
Aneta Tarver
May 14, 2006
Dear Mrs. Frank Callahan,
I am very sorry for the lost of your dearly beloved husband, Frank. His loving-kindness shows in his face. I know you still miss him very much. But, let what one writer in this guest book stated in this book about John 15:13 give you comfort that your husband gave the greatest love he could give for others. He is in God's memory. May you have peace of mind and heart.
Sincerely yours,
Aneta Tarver
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
charles BONAR
September 27, 2004
ANGIE, I WORKED WITH FRANK FOR SEVEN YEARS. EVEN THOUGH ,I SPOKE AT HIS MEMORIAL , I HAVE NEVER BEEN ABLE TO TELL YOU HOW SORRY I REALLY AM. I ENJOYED HIS COMPANY . MANY TIMES I WANTED TO CALL BUT I ALWAYS SEEMED UNSURE OF WHAT TO SAY . I HOPE YOU AND THE KIDS ARE DOING WELL. I KNOW HARRY IS DOING GREAT WITH THE NYFD AT LADDER 13. I HEAR VERY GOOD REPORTS ON HIM . FRANK WOULD BE PROUD.
CHARLIE BONAR
LADDER 34
Kelley Fuhrbach
July 23, 2004
The fire is finally extinguished and now you must rest peacefully as the new world will begin to grow and you will once again be joined by your loved ones. God Bless Your soul and keep your family safe.
F D
May 10, 2004
Captain Callahan...I spent many years going to your house and being scared that you were going to train that stern gaze my way. You raised some wonderful children, sir and I thank you for everything that you have done. May god bless you, Angie, Harry, Nora, Pete and Rose. I love you guys.
Patti Eylar
September 11, 2003
Though I didn't personally know anyone who gave their life on 9/11, after reading "Firehouse" I feel like I know Captain Callahan and his company. It is the saddest book I have ever read, but it is also inspiring to know there are heroes like Frank Callahan willing to give their lives to protect us. I hope the firefighters will be listed as they would have wished to be, though by company or alphabetically, they are the absolute heroes of the day, and we will never forget them.
Sincerely, Patti Eylar
beverly caskey
September 11, 2003
to the Callahan family: my heart goes out to you and your family: may God bless you each and everyday and watch over you in your time of need. I am from Tx and never had a chance to go to NY but i feel so deeply for you and your family and the rest of the firefighters family.
John 15:13
Johnathan Moore
May 19, 2003
Dear Mrs. Callahan,
During my 6 weeks at the WTC site, I found a laminated picture of your husband that had fallen off of the Memorial Tree. It will hang on my family's Christmas Trees each year in rememberance of the selfless acts of courage and love that cost the life your remarkable husband and others like him (John 15:13). Such are the acts that led me to make my decision for Christ. May God bless your family always.
Randal Caudill
December 4, 2002
Dear Mrs. Callahan,
My name is Randal Caudill. I am a Captain in a Volunteer Fire Dept. Many of the men in our dept. paid quite a bit of attention to what happened on September 11. We came to mourn the loss of our brothers in arms. We are in a small town in Ky. We have never seen anything so devestating in our area. We answer every call that comes in to us. Some men may not come due to illness or lack of sleep. But, the way that New York's finest answered the call to help and save people on that day, makes us very proud of them. I feel that I would do anything I could to help someone in danger in a run. Captain Frank Callahan sounds the same way. I have a memorial band that honors your husbands memory. I hope that i can work in a way that will not dishonor that memory. May God bless you and your family. My prayers will be with you. Randal Caudill
Krystin and Bridgette Weiss
November 26, 2002
Dear Mrs. Callahan,
I attended and my sister is currently attending Twin Towers Middle School. When we heard of this tragedy, involving your husband we felt terrible. Although my sister nor I ever had the opportunity to have you as a teacher we have both heard wonderful things about you. We are sure that your husband was a great person. We just wanted to express our deepest sympathy. We are both very sorry to hear about your loss. Mr. Callahan died a very brave man fighting for a country everybody loves, and he will always be remembered as a GREAT man. You and your family will always be in our prayers.
Love,
Krystin and Bridgette Weiss
Brian, Susan, and Andrew Murray
October 3, 2002
Dear Cousin Angie and family,
We are your Alabama cousins. We are the children of Chuck Murray, grandchildren of Bernadette Murray. We are so very sorry for the loss of your brave husband and father. You are in our prayers. God bless all of you and comfort you.
The Murrays
VICKI BUTLER
September 19, 2002
TO THE FAMILY OF FRANK CALLAHAN:
I HAVE NEVER MET FRANK BUT I AM WEARING HIS MERCY BRACLET IN HIS MEMORY. I HAVE LEARNED A LOT ABOUT FRANK AND JUST BY LOOKING AT HIS PICTURE HE LOOKS LIKE A VERY NICE MAN. HE HAS A PEACEFULL LOOK ABOUT HIM.
MY HEART AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY AND HE WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS DAILY. I KNOW IF FRANK WOULD HAVE THE CHANCE TO COME BACK TO US AFTER BEING IN HEAVEN HE WOULD SAY I LOVE YOU ALL BUT I WOULD LIKE TO STAY WHERE I AM MOW. I AM AT PEACE. WE ARE THE UNFORTUNATE ONES STILL LIVING IN A WORLD WHERE THINGS LIKE THIS HAPPENED BUT I WOULD NOT WANT TO LIVE ANYWHERE ELSE. WE ARE SO LUCKEY HERE IN AMERICA THAT IS WHY WE ARE HATED SO MUCH BY OTHER COUNTRIES. FRANK DIED BY THE HANDS OF SOME VERY SICK PEOPLE. MAY WE ALL MEET SOMEDAY IN HEAVEN AND UNTIL THEN YOUR FAMILY WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS. STAY STRONG
ALL MY LOVE VICKI BUTLER
Alison Kaczmar
September 18, 2002
I never met Mr. Callahan but knew of him through memories shared by Mrs. Callahan, as she was my 8th grade math teacher. My heartfelt sorrow goes out to Mrs. Callahan and her family, as i was not able to deliver it personally.
Love,
Alison
Lauren Gerstner
September 11, 2002
Dear Callahan Family,
I just want to pray you all today, and let you know that I will forever remember what Captain Callahan did for our country. I recieved his name on a piece of paper and a white ribbon from the pastoral ministry group at my school today. We were asked to say a prayer for the name of the person we recieved, and this is mine. May God be with you, and strengthen your hearts in this time of grief. May you know that I will always remember him as a hero, as will the rest of America. A newfound respect is established within me for the fire fighters of New York and for their dedication to our country. In my mind I have no notion of the real Frank Callahan, but in my heart I know he hears me. Although simple and insignificant is the piece of paper and white ribbon, the memories and thoughts are indeed profound. Whenever I look at these objects, I will think of your family and your husband/father's legacy will forever live on. May you find the strength to get through this, and may God be with you wherever you are.
Sincerely,
Lauren G.
Erin Callahan
September 11, 2002
I didn't know your husband. I do now. I was looking up victims names and came across his. The thing that hit me hard and the thing that makes me respect your husband the most, besides he was a firefighter who died doing his job, was that Frank Callahan is also my dad's name and his dad's name and his grandfather's name. God Bless your husband and I know he is up in heaven getting to know my grandfather, Frank Callahan
jessica bell
September 11, 2002
God Bless you all..
I work at a school district. I wore your loved ones name today in celebration of his life. My you find peace and Bless us all.
Pam Scott
September 11, 2002
Angie,,,I didn't know until today.My memories of Francis are those of a quiet man with a beautiful smile who adored you and those four kids.
Memories going back 30 years....I'm so sorry Angie.
tom deluca
September 3, 2002
to Mrs. callahan, Harry, Nora, Pete, and Rosie, I dont really know what to say. Your Dad did a job that few men are able or willing to do. I have a picture of your father on my wall and even though i dont live across the street anymore and Nora and I have lost touch through the years of college, I still think of you guys and you were and still are in my prayers. I wanted to come by but didnt know how, or what to do, so I hope this message makes it to your family. And to know that although Frank didnt know me all that well, he has left a lasting impression on me and he will not be forgotten. And to Nora, where ever you are, I think of you and hope you are ok. God Bless your whole family
Love, Tom
(your old neighbor)
BARBARA LANG
April 23, 2002
Dear Angela and Joseph: Hi my name is Barbara. I attended your husband and brother in laws memorial service at Lincoln Center. We spoke a few minutes there but I did not have enough time to tell you how sad we all felt not only for you but also and especially for your children...You have a nice daughter and she spoke well at the service..I took photos quite a few and my duaghter a film student of NY Film Academy in NYC took videos which you are in. ...I would be happy to share them with you...Again our condolences to you and your family May God Find Everlasting Peace for your Husband in His Hands He is A Great Hero...Barbara And Alena
Teresa Jahn
January 7, 2002
We are extremely sorry for our nation's loss of Frank. We thank him with all our hearts for dedicating his life to help others as a firefighter. Such a profession comes with a brave, warm and caring heart. May Frank's courage, life and love live on in those who love him and in those who have been touched by his life. May you always feel the warmth of his love radiate into your hearts. Our hearts cry with you in America's loss of a hero.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Anonymous
December 15, 2001
MAY GOD BLESS YOU CAPT.FRANK CALLAHAN AND MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER
FORGET 9/11/01
Judy Cherbonneau
December 7, 2001
Rest in peace with God! To your family, friends, and comrades of Ladder 35, I am so sorry for the loss of your hero!
Cindy Lane
November 21, 2001
I am proud to wear a mercy band with Frank's name on it. It is a small token that reminds me daily of the heroes that live among us. His courage on Sept. llth will be remembered by all Americans. Thank you Frank, may you rest in peace.
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