Daniel F. Callahan

November 28, 1939 - January 25, 2024

In Loving Memory of Daniel F. Callahan (November 28, 1939 – January 25, 2024)

Daniel F. Callahan, 84, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Born in Boston, MA, on November 28, 1939, he was the cherished son of the late Daniel and Helen (née Mouskoskos) Callahan and the devoted husband of Kari Callahan.

Daniel’s academic journey was marked by dedication and accomplishment. He earned his B.A. from St. John’s Seminary in Brighton, Mass. in 1962, his M.A. from Boston College in 1965, and his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 1968. As a Professor Emeritus of History at the University of Delaware, Daniel specialized in the captivating history of Medieval Europe during the tenth and eleventh centuries. His passion for knowledge and commitment to education enriched the lives of countless students over the years.

Beyond the lecture halls and research pursuits, Daniel was a contemplative soul who found solace in the tranquility of early morning nature walks. His lake house in Maine provided him with a retreat where he could connect with nature and reflect on life’s beauty. Daniel also derived great joy from his time spent at the University of Delaware Library, where his dedication to academia truly flourished. A fervent Red Sox fan, he brought the same enthusiasm to his favorite baseball team as he did to his academic pursuits.

Daniel is preceded in death by his loving parents and sisters, Helen Callahan and Judy Oleks. He is survived by his adoring wife, Kari Callahan, and their three children: Matthew Callahan, Michael Callahan, and Katharine Callahan. He is also survived by his brother, Edward Callahan and his wife, Kathy; and sister, Ann Foster and brother-in-law, Kevin Manns.

In accordance with family wishes, private services will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the University of Delaware Library Fund, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and the sharing of that knowledge with others.

Daniel F. Callahan will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. May he rest in eternal peace, his legacy forever etched in the hearts and minds of those he touched.

RT Foard

Stephen Jones

Carl Jameson

Yuanchong Wang

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In Loving Memory of Daniel F. Callahan (November 28, 1939 – January 25, 2024) Daniel F. Callahan, 84, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 25, 2024. Born in Boston, MA, on November 28, 1939, he was the cherished son of the late Daniel and Helen (née Mouskoskos) Callahan and the devoted husbandContinue Reading

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Where to start? I still have many memories and textbooks from classes he taught. He made you want to come to class. He made teaching and learning enjoyable. Even though he was very intelligent he also had an excellent sense of humor. He was one of a very few professors who could combine both. He took an interest in his students and classes he taught. Very few professors would put as much time, organization, and effort into their classes and students. He literally dedicated his entire life to academia.

I studied with professor Callahan as an undergraduate student at U of D. I still tell stories about how wonderful his lectures were. I’m a scientist not a historian but he brought it to life every lecture. He was a standard bearer for teaching.

UD has lost a teacher who was very open and available to students. I greatly enjoyed the seminar he gave along with Professor Nees on monasteries and monasticism. When I came to OLLI, I wanted to give a class (in2000) on the first millennium and came to Professor Callahan for advice He expressed his customary strong opinions that guided me in developing the course.

Dr. Callahan was a great man and an exceptional professor. He is the reason I've read the entire Bible...I learned so much from him! Rest in peace, and condolences to his family!

Professor Callahan was one of my favorite professors, wry and wise. His classes were both challenging and delightful, and although his wit could be acerbic and his expectations high, he was the sort of professor who made you want to impress him while making time to indulge his students' curiosity and questions.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Professor Callahan was one of my mentors. I always loved him for supporting me throughout my Undergraduate degree and was very intrigued by his classes on Charlemagne and Medieval Europe. He was an extremely loving man. He is &; was a wonderful person. I know that he is in a better place.

Dr. Callahan was a great historian and professor. I always enjoyed going to his class and office hours for discussion, and I am very sorry to learn of his passing.

Learning from Professor Callahan was a pleasure and a privilege. My sincerest condolences to those fortunate enough to have known him better than I did.

To the best professor and history mentor. May your glass of sunshine be full eternally.

Dan was one of the best friends I ever had, ever will have. I will never stop missing him. All my love to the family.

One of the best professors, one you would not forget, one who made history come alive and one who would instill life long learning. With heartfelt condolences to the family.

I am so sorry to hear about Dan's passing. He was a friend to me and an unwavering supporter of our History Education Program. Our students adored him--and always will!

In memory of Daniel F. Callahan, Yuanchong Wang lit a candle

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