James Owen Callahan

James Owen Callahan "J.O." entered into God's arms on January 14, 2004 at Banner Gardens Hospice in Mesa, Arizona. He was born January 15, 1923 in Welton, Iowa to Patrick J. Callahan and Ann Carlin. He graduated from Davenport High School in 1942 where he was a member of the football and track teams. He entered the Air Corps in June 1943. He was an aerial gunner in the 48th Heavy Bomb Group and was awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement during aerial flight. He married Elaine Meersman "Jeri" of Moline, Illinois on June 28, 1945. He graduated from St. Ambrose College. J.O. loved golf and one of his proudest achievements was his two holes-in-one. He was the loving father of 11 children. His three sons, Joseph, Steven and Sean, preceded him in death. He was survived by his wife, Jeri, of Mesa, AZ, Debbie Phillips of Dallas, TX, Mike Callahan of Canton, GA, Colleen Callahan of Greeley, CO, Cary Callahan of Corona, CA, Bridget Stewart of Aurora, CO, Jenny Schwartz of Ladera Ranch, CA, Jan Doyle of Lake Forest, CA, and Kelly Callahan of Renton, WA. His 20 grandchildren called him "Papa J.O." His wife and children surrounded him at the time of his death. There will be a military memorial mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Mesa, Arizona at 1:00 on Saturday, January 17. Donations may be made to Disabled American Veterans.