John P. Callanan

John Patrick Callanan Jr.

John Patrick Callanan Jr. of Burdett, passed away on May 4, 2026, surrounded by his family at Schuyler Hospital.

Born in Buffalo, NY to John Sr. and Charlotte Callanan, John's family relocated to Watkins Glen at a young age, making him a true child of Western New York — a place where his roots ran deep. He was raised in a family of professionals: lawyers, engineers, judges. Academic aptitude was never in short supply. John, however, was always on a different path.

His place in the world was with a tool in hand. He was a builder — of boats, racquetball courts, buildings, and homes. His work evolved over the decades, but the throughline remained constant: the lifelong friends he seemed to effortlessly collect at every stop along the way.

It was that handiness that brought him to The North Shore of Boston, where he met his wife, Eleanor Honan— who, to her credit, was charmed by the long hair, the motorcycle, and the mustache. They spent the rest of their lives building something far more important: a family, rooted in Burdett, NY.

John will be remembered for his remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Buddhists and hippies, Elks and Rotarians, hunters and motorheads — "JC" or “Harry” could find common ground with just about anyone, and he made sure to keep it. Whether prowling an obscure museum, playing 18 holes, or tailgating with his buddies, John was equally at home in all of it — which probably explains why he got along with just about everyone. He'll be remembered for his mischievous smile, his quick wit, and his slow stories.

But his legacy is firmly rooted in the family he and Eleanor built together. His two children, Shannon (Matthew Schamel) and Neil (Laura) and their families were the center of his universe, and he spent his final years surrounded by the people he loved most — his grandchildren Callan, Finn, Lida, Charlotte, and Shea.

In addition, he is survived by his siblings Karen (John Sims), Kevin (Kathy), Margaret, and Connie (Matthew Bennett), as well as many close cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

A memorial mass and celebration of life (i.e., Party) will be held on Saturday, June 6th, in Watkins Glen.  The family will receive friends and relatives at the Link at  St. Mary’s of the Lake Church from 10am-11am; followed by a Memorial Mass at 11:00am at the church.  A reception will be announced.  The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Hector Foundation Playground Fund in his honor. (c/o Hector Foundation, PO Box 132, Hector, NY 14841) Or better yet, call an old friend.

As JC would say, Go Bills.