Peter Michael Callinan

1930 - 2025

Peter Michael Callinan
November 26, 1930 - September 10, 2025
Peter Michael Callinan, 94, of Rohnert Park, passed away peacefully with family by his side on September 10, 2025.
A Celebration of Life honoring Peter will be held on Sunday, October 19 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. at the Rohnert Park Community Center: 5401 Snyder Lane.
Born in Newark, New Jersey, Peter proudly served his country on active duty in the United States Air Force from 1948 to 1952, stationed at Fort Richardson and Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1952 and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.
In 1952, Peter married the love of his life, Greta Faye Buchanan. While raising their growing family, he attended Seton Hall University in New Jersey, graduating in 1958. The following year, he and Greta moved with their children to Rohnert Park, where they purchased a brand-new home on Arlen Drive for $12,500.00 ~ right across the street from Alicia Park and just down the street from John Reed Elementary School.
Peter worked as an accountant for Kaiser Aluminum in Oakland, but his heart was always in community service. In 1962, he ran for city council, receiving the most votes, and went on to become the very first Mayor of Rohnert Park. The council later appointed him as the city's first City Manager, a position he held with great dedication until his retirement in 1991. His leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping Rohnert Park into the thriving community it is today.
Peter was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Greta Faye Callinan; his parents, Joseph and Rosina Callinan; his son, Peter (Petey) Callinan Jr.; his sister, Jeanette Reynolds; brothers, John and Robert Callinan; and his great-granddaughter, Charlotte Faye Callinan.
He is survived by his children, Joyce Miller, Christopher (Jeanine) Callinan, Gary (Theresa) Callinan, Joseph (Janet) Callinan, and Jeffrey (Denise) Callinan; sixteen grandchildren; thirty-seven great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
A man of deep faith, Peter was a devoted member of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, as well as a pioneer, leader, and man of integrity who devoted his life to both family and community.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Peter's memory to: Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital or Providence Hospice of Petaluma.