Joseph W. Callahan

Joseph William Callahan

1935 –2025 

Joseph W. Callahan passed away peacefully on March 21, 2025 at the age of 89.  Our family is profoundly sad for this loss. He was a loving husband of 62 years to Mary (Wilks), a devoted father to Pete (Shannon), Tom (Sue), Mary Ellen Hughes (Ed) and Kevin (Jeanne), 10 cherished grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. 

Joe was born in West Philadelphia, the middle child of John and Mary (Gibbons).  He was predeceased by his brothers Ed, Jack, Frank and Vince.  He is survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

He was a graduate of St. Carthage School, West Catholic High School (‘53), St. Joseph’s University (BS Chemistry) and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

He had a distinguished 33-year career at the Scott Paper Company where he worked in Research and Development. He was exceptionally proud of being granted a patent. During his many years at the Scott Paper Company, he became the Chairman of the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry, Delaware Valley section. Joe also served his country as a Corpsman for 8 years in the United States Naval Reserve.

He was devoted to his Catholic faith. He was a dedicated parishioner of St. Dorothy's Church. He attended annual retreats at Malvern starting in 1954 ultimately being honored with over 60 plus years of loyalty to the retreat movement.   He served on the Advisory Board for the Holy Family Home run by the Little Sisters of the Poor.  

Joe will be dearly missed by all who knew him.   Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing at St. Dorothy’s  Church, 4910 Township Line Road, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania 19026, on Friday, March 28, 2025, at  9:00AM, where his Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30AM. 

In lieu of flowers, and in his memory, contributions be made to the Little Sisters of the Poor at Holy Family Home, located at 5300 Chester Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. 19143. 

In Joe’s words, “Be as kind as you can.”  

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