Michael B. Callahan

Michael B. Callahan died from a stroke, in Albuquerque, N.M., March 19, 2004. He was born Feb. 7, 1913, in Tacoma to Anne and Timothy Callahan.

He was raised in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, where he attended school before entering and graduating from the University of Idaho. He worked at various jobs such as lookout and firefighter for the Forest Service in northern Idaho.

He was very proud of his experiences in the Civilian Conservation Corps in which he worked in every job and position except doctor and chaplain. His major experience in the CCC was that of educational advisor. In 1942 he closed out the last three camps in southern Idaho and took the remaining enrollees by train to California. He also taught biology and chemistry for two years in Glenns Ferry, Idaho.

Michael Callahan’s military experience started as a private in Troop K of the 116th (Horse) Cavalry and ended with retirement as a commander, US Navy Reserve. He spent 32 years in the Federal Civil Service as a training specialist, in Falls Church, Va.

Mr. Callahan moved to Oak Harbor in 1974. He was active in local affairs, particularly, political. He was a long time member of the Island County Republican Central Committee. He was the chairman for four years and edited the committee’s publication, Republican Roundup, for about 12 years. He was also a member of the Whidbey Chapter of the Retired Officers Association.

He is survived by his widow, Florence Callahan of Albuquerque, N.M.; his daughter, Michael Ann Brown of Fairfax, Va.; his son Jerry Callahan of Renton; his son David Callahan of Albuquerque, N.M.; and six grandchildren.