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John Callihan Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Callihan
Ken Noble
February 18, 2010
I met John in 1973 when I first auditioned and became a member of the 7th Army Soldiers Chorus in Heidelberg, Germany and served as pianist and administrative officer for the next 3 years. John was always very complimentary and very helpful and respectful of everyone in the Chorus and gave positive encouragement to everyone. He was a great baritone section leader in the Chorus and always performed so beautifully at our countless performances in Europe. He was also very culturally interested in the European communities and was a great ambassador to fulfill our motto "Friendship thru Music". I was able to enjoy association with him again at several of the Chorus reunions for the past several years. He is truly a friend that will be greatly missed. Our prayers go with his family and loved ones at this time. God bless you John.
Rocky Johnson
February 17, 2010
John was my Army brother, more importantly, he was one of my mentors. His calm demeanor, confidence in communication and trust in human nature, were vital in my maturing and understanding of life, in military or civilian uniform.
Duane Fitzpatrick
February 15, 2010
It is rare for a man to have such intelligence, talent, great smile and humble spirit as Johnny. I count the time I spent with him as the richest in my life as we talked about life, love and the importance of friends. Paul, Michael, Rick, Susy, Pam, Brenda, Norm, Mark and Mitch, please always remember how much John loved you. He is smiling in Heaven now with his family and Tim.
Kendy Murphy
February 13, 2010
John's smile and beautiful voice will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this difficult time.
Mark Morrison
February 13, 2010
I met John when he came to my dental office with his partner Tim. At that time, Tim was very ill and required a lot of care from John. I was struck by how kind and attentive John was and just what an amazing person he seemed to be. In time, we both realized we had friends in common and similar college backgrounds. We became friends and after Tim passed away I suggested that John join the Gay Men's Chorus--some of my patients were Chorus members too. The Chorus soon became John's focus and source of happiness. This helped him through his loss of a life partner and his membership was a constant source of pride for him.
Over many years, John and all of our mutual friends would regularly get together for concerts, plays, movies and countless restaurant adventures for lunches and dinner. The Gay Men's Chorus with John at Christmas time was always the highlight of the year for his many friends.
Eventually, it was my turn to draw on John's life experiences and get help from him. My partner died several years ago and it was John who advised and counselled me during a rough time. He was always there to help his friends.
Recently, during one of the last times John and I were able to converse together, he was in a lot of pain and under strong medication. It had been quiet and out of the blue John turned to me and gave me a big bright smile and asked me how a recent date had gone that I had had with someone special I am seeing. That was typical John, always more interested in others than in himself. He was always such a non-selfish and kind soul.
I still can't imagine a world without John Callihan. I'll miss our after dinner "boy-talk" sessions about love, life, losses and gains. He is a big loss to all who loved him and were lucky enough to call him a friend.
Daphne Gibbs
February 13, 2010
As long as memories lives... Those we love never die,for as long as live and remember, they are with us. In ways big and small John's life touched too many hearts to be forgotten. I was blessed to have John as a part of my extended family. May cherished memories bring you moments of comfort and may lasting peace surround your grieving heart during this time of deep and personal sadness.
Bob Friesen
February 12, 2010
I am blessed to have been given the chance to have John as a friend as well as a fellow baritone in the CGMC, but I will miss his smile, his impish grin, and his generosity of spirit. I will remember and think of him whenever I get on my bicycle.
Diane Barrow
February 12, 2010
Paul and Family and Friends - My most sincere and heartfelt condolences in the loss of your brother, John. May everyone's prayers and support help you through this time of mourning, and may his memory soon bring smiles back to your faces. I will keep you all in my prayers.
(Fellow CPD officer/friend)
David Roduner
February 12, 2010
I have known John since I joined the Columbus Gay Men's Chorus in 2001. I will never forget his room-warming smile and boundless positive attitude. There are countless stories of his boundless love and generosity. John is an inspiration to us all. His is a spirit that all of us should wish to emulate. John, I will miss you dearly, but I am glad you are no longer in pain. We love you.
Terry Talbott
February 12, 2010
We will all miss John very much. He always had a smile and hug for everyone. What an honor to call him friend!!!
Donna Bennett
February 12, 2010
I feel very blessed to have known John. He had the biggest heart, brightest smile and most positive attitude of anyone I have ever known. I treasure the many special gifts that John gave me over the years for Christmas; unique ornaments, candies, candles among just a few. His best gift was his friendship.I loved hearing about his vacations, especially when he had visited family. He loved them all so much. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers
Larry (popcorn) Kelso
February 12, 2010
I don't think I've seen John since an Army reunion in the '80s, but did get to speak with him several years ago. I've always enjoyed his company, easy laughter, wonderful knowledge of wine, and song! I'm certain the Columbus Gay Men's Chorus will miss his voice, it was beautiful.
Our condolences to his family and friends from another 7th Army Soldiers Chorus buddy.
February 12, 2010
I was ten years ahead of John in the 7th Army Soldier's Chorus.I met him two times at the Chorus Reunions we had some good times talking about our memories of the service.I met several people who knew John,and had alot of good things to say about his singing also him as a person.It would have been a pleasure to serve with him. "GOD BLESS YOU JOHN"
George and Carol Zifer (Dover,Ohio)
Rich & Judy Coyle
February 12, 2010
We didn't know John for long, as we only met him at the care facility where he shared a room with my husband. He had a welcoming smile and positive attitude each day regardless of his physical struggles.
It was a true pleasure to share space with John and his entourage as it was evident he had earned their love and respect and they too exhibited their kindness on us.
It's unfortunate John's life ended so soon, but there is no doubt he is singing in a bigger and better choir and we hope someday to hear him as that is something we missed on this earth.
Our sympathy to all his dear family and friends.
Mike Klausing
February 11, 2010
I will miss John very much. He was a most kind and generous man, with a great love for singing.
Vickie Blubaugh
February 11, 2010
While I haven't seen John in several years, I've thought fondly of him many times. What a fine man. My condolences on your loss.
Mark Brunnemer
February 11, 2010
I had the priviledge to call "Little John" as he was known in the 7th Army Soldiers's a true friend. Our group was unique in that we were friends first and soldier's second. Although I have not seen Little John for several years, I have not forgotten him. Me and "T" (Chuck Thornton) still talk about John on occasions.
To his family and friends, he will never be forgotten. Every time we have an Army reunion we will lift up our glass and toast his memory until that time when we see him again.
Mark Brunnemer
"Gopher"
Theresa Huston
February 11, 2010
I have missed seeing John in the halls at CAS since he became too ill to work. It was always a pleasure to consult with John since he always greeted everyone with a wonderful smile and complete attention. His knowledge of geochemistry and cheerful personality will be missed by all of us who had the pleasure to work with him.
February 11, 2010
Dear Callihan Family,
Our sincere sympathy in the passing of John C. Callihan. We gratefully acknowledge his service to our country.
Sincerely and God Bless,
Buckeye Military Moms, Chapter 9
Blue Star Mothers
Columbus, OH
Rev. Cricket Park
February 11, 2010
Let light perpetual shine upon you, John.
I'm sorry that I won't be able to be at the memorial. You are all in my prayers.
Ron Anderson
February 11, 2010
I met John only one time at a 7th Army Chorus reunion. His ready smile and beautiful voice made it easy to like him. I wish I had more time to learn to know him better. Rest in Peace.
Mary Beth Walmsley
February 11, 2010
I never had to pleasure of meeting this gentleman, but as a member of the chorus he is considered family. My condolences to his family and friends. God Bless you John on your journey.
Steve Millman
February 11, 2010
I've known John since 1973 when we met overseas during our time together in the U.S. Army. In order to be assigned duty with the 7th Army Soldiers Chorus at Army Headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany, we had to audition before the leadership of that group. John was the Baritone Section leader and he helped me prepare my audition piece and to gain approval as a trainee for the group. After passing audition, John became my Section leader and formed a friendship with those whom he served and led, that has remained intact until this sad day. We turned to John for help in singing German words
as he spoke German fluently. We turned to him for help learning music as he was an expert sight reader. We turned to him for guidance and support as he was a level headed, kind hearted man who truly cared about the well being of others. John was not tall in stature; but he had a giant heart, smile and personality that filled an arena with warmth and goodness. I will miss you, my dear old friend.
February 11, 2010
It was my privilege to work closely with John for the last 9 years of his 30 year career at CAS. His CAS "family" will miss him very much. With heartfelt sadness, Wendy Reichenbach
Glenna Krumlauf
February 11, 2010
I always looked forward to John's appointments at the James because I knew I would be greeted with the most wonderful smile and positive outlook on the day.John's passing is a loss to the community as well as his friends and family.I feel privileged to have known him in such a small way.
dennis kish
February 11, 2010
i was very fortunate to have served with John in the 7th army soldiers chorus in Heidelberg Germany. he was agreat musician and a great friend. over the years we were able to stay in touch through our army reunions. he loved the Chorus and all the guys and we loved him. what a loss.
denny kish
2nd tenor, u.s.army, 7th army soldiers chorus
1974-1976
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