Obituary of Gerald Callahan

Gerald D. Callahan, a retired Executive of the United Way, passed away peacefully at his home in Billerica on Monday, July 18, 2022.  He was 92 years old.

Gerry was the beloved husband of Carole.  He was the loving father of Scott Acone & his wife Deborah of Groton and Christopher Acone & his wife Lea of Billerica.   Proud grandfather of Emily, Lauren, Ryan and Abby.  Brother of Margaret Robinson of SC, Rita Sagalyn of Concord, Dorothy Pettus of NC and the late Elizabeth Ahomen and Marylou Tschirch.

Gerry was born and raised in Lowell.  He was one of five children born to Irish Immigrants, the late Daniel and Elizabeth Callahan.  Gerry would meet Carole through his sister, who was an English teacher with Carole.  They married and settled in Billerica where they would raise their family. 

Gerry and the family loved to spend time in Dover, Vermont and Waterville Valley, New Hampshire.  He was an avid skier and also enjoyed golfing, being outdoors and spending time with his family and friends.  Gerry was a lover of music. He especially enjoyed jazz and classical music and would sometimes play the guitar, banjo and harmonica for anyone who would listen. 

Gerry was an inspiration to all who knew him.  His warmth and kind-heartedness showed in every encounter and everything he did.  Gerry was well read and well traveled and never missed an opportunity to share his life experiences with others.  He was truly grateful for every day of his life and every new person who entered it.  This was never more evident than the time he spent with his sons, nieces and nephews, and eventually, his grandchildren.  They lit up his life, and their “Papa” did the same for them.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Margaret's Church, 111 Winn St., Burlington on Friday, August 12 at 10am.  Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Gerry’s name, may be made to Save the Children.