With support, Callahan clan soldiers on

James Callahan’s death touched many lives, just as the late Malverne deputy mayor had done in life — a fact evidenced by the “overwhelming” support his family has received in the six weeks since he died.

“We’re really very lucky that, even though we’ve lost him, we have so many people that want to help us,” said Callahan’s widow, Patricia. “I’ve been very, very touched by that. You don’t realize how many lives he touched until something like this happens. And I’ve heard so many stories about wonderful things he’s done, so, that part of it is very nice.”

Some 170 people, including numerous town, county and state officials, turned out for a June 29 fundraiser organized by several Callahan relatives and friends to raise money for the James J. Callahan III Family Trust, which was established shortly after Callahan’s May 26 death for the education of his four children, Thomas, 12, Katherine, 9, Elizabeth, 7, and 4-year-old Christina.

“College and education are very important; they always have been in our entire family,” said Joseph Canzoneri Jr., Patricia Callahan’s brother. “[The trust was] set up to provide for the kids’ education and the future — whatever their needs are.”

The idea for a fundraiser arose before Callahan died, while he was hospitalized after suffering a stroke on April 9. “We never expected Jim to pass away,” Canzoneri said. “We were going to have a fundraiser to help out with medical costs.”

But Callahan was ultimately diagnosed with cancer, and died the day that initial fundraiser had been scheduled to take place. His friends decided to reschedule it and direct the proceeds to the trust instead.

“These types of fundraisers are very, very much appreciated,” Patricia recently told the Herald. “We’re very touched by the outpouring of people who want to help us because it’s a sign that they cared about Jim and that they want to make sure that his children are OK.”