Mary Callan, 90

The world was diminished by the death of Mary Callan on Thursday, March 15, 2012, at her home in Anaconda. She died peacefully, surrounded by family members, after a short illness.

Mary was born Oct. 31, 1921, in Butte, the third of five children to John and Frances Mack. She graduated from Girls’ Central High School in 1939, and attended Sacred Heart School of Nursing in Spokane.

She enlisted in the Army following graduation in 1943, achieving the rank of first lieutenant. She was assigned to the 203rd General Hospital, providing medical support for the troops in England and France.

She married Dr. Terry Callan on March 2, 1946; they made their home in Anaconda for more than 60 years.

Mary felt her greatest accomplishment in life was raising her nine children. She was a devoted mother and a wonderful support to her children and grandchildren.

She was involved in many community organizations, volunteering with the Community Hospital Auxiliary and Anaconda Catholic Community in the religious education program, as a member of the parish council and as a Eucharistic minister.

One of her greatest joys was attending church each Sunday. She also enjoyed playing bridge with her friends and her weekly hair appointment.

She loved visiting her nine children and their families, and looked forward to the biannual family reunions. Mary faithfully acknowledged the birthdays of her many children and grandchildren.

Favorites among her travels were trips to Hawaii, Ireland and Japan.

Mary was preceded in death by husband, Terry Callan; sister, Winifred O’Toole; brothers, John and Eugene Mack; and granddaughter, Stacy Johnson.

Mary is survived by her sister, Marge Henry; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Smith and Peggy and Kevin Johnson; children, Terry and Jane, Tom and Kris, Kathie Vaughn, Frank and Suzanne, Pat and Kathy, Mary and Rich Johnson, Karen and Bill Lowney, Sharon, and Nancy and Gene Marcille, 28 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces.

The wonderful people of Anaconda made it possible for Mary to live independently at home through their support and kindnesses. The family wishes to especially thank Bill Gransberry, Nicole Green, Kathleen and Ben Nicely, Carol and Jack Gilluly, and Bill and Dawn Dee.

Mary was the model of generosity and grace. In her quiet and unassuming way, she made a difference in the lives of all who knew her.

The Liturgy of Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 20, at Holy Family Church in Anaconda.

Visitation begins at 4 p.m. Monday, March 19, with the rosary at 6:30 p.m., and the vigil service at 7 p.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church.

Memorials may be made to Anaconda Pintler Hospice, 118 E. Seventh, Anaconda, MT 59711; American Cancer Society Great West Division, 1551 Broadway, Suite 200, Tacoma, WA 98401; or Anaconda Catholic Community, 217 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Anaconda, MT 59711.

Arrangements are under the care of Longfellow Finnegan Funeral Home of Anaconda.