James Michael Callahan “Mike”, 67, of Burney California, passed away on March 19th after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mike was born on September 8th, 1956, in Willows, California to James “Jim” and Denita Callahan. After graduating from Elk Creek High School, Mike followed in his father’s footsteps and began a career in the lumber industry. He was a devoted and talented employee, working as a saw filer for 49 years, and retiring June of 2023.
In 1983, Mike moved to Wyoming, where he truly felt at home. Raising his two children, James “Neal” Callahan and daughter McKenzie Samuelson in the small mountain town of Saratoga. Mike returned to California in 2002 to continue work as the head saw filer.
Mike was an avid hunter and fisherman, passions that were instilled by his father, and passed on to his children and grandchildren. A very skilled knife maker, Mike turned his hobby into a business -- Callahan Custom Cutlery. Many of his knives were donated to support organizations across the state of California.
Mike was preceded in death by his mother, sisters and nephews Denita Callahan, Janet Ellen Callahan, Mary Jane Roff, Scott Mason and Scott Callahan, respectively. Mike leaves behind his children Neal and McKenzie (Brady) Samuelson; and three grandchildren. Mike was known as Papa Cal to his beloved grandchildren Axel, Everett and Ryan Claire. Additionally, he is survived by his father, Jim, and siblings Nonie Callahan, Lenita (Rick) Payne, Pat (Erin) Callahan and Art (Sherry) Callahan, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Please Join us in celebrating James Michael Callahan’s life on Saturday, June 1st, at 11:00 in the morning. The service will be held at the Elk Creek (California) Fire Hall followed by a potluck meal, meat provided. Mike’s children will plant trees in his honor, on their property in Wyoming. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the honorary tree fund.
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