Thomas J. Callanan

Thomas J. Callanan passed away on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at his home in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.  On December 9, 1935, Thomas and his brother William, were born to Thomas and Margaret (Fleming) Callanan. He graduated from Iona College in 1958 and earned a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay University in 1972.

Like so many, Thomas had two passions in life. The first was his family.  He married Anne Marie Gavin in September of 1959, and together they raised their seven children. His beloved Anne died in 2002, and Tom was again blessed with love and married, Linda Moore in 2006.

His second passion centered on his career.  Thomas rose quickly in his field to become part of the Governor’s Cabinet as New York State’s Chief Probation Officer in 1977.  As an accomplished leader, Tom co-founded the National Probation and Parole Association as well as its New York chapter. He was also an accomplished author in his field, and a Professor at Russell Sage College and later, John Jay College. Tom retired in 1997 after serving 10 years as the Chief Probation Officer of Riverside County, California. His commitment to serve others is most evident in his role in establishing Operation Safe House, a home for runaway, homeless, and at-risk youth.  In retirement, Tom volunteered and was President of Riverside’s Meals on Wheels, and the Riverside Exchange Club.

As busy as he was, Tom always found time for his family, friends and community. He touched so many lives and will be missed. As a devout Catholic, and all-round good guy, Tom would ask that in lieu of flowers you say a prayer or just send good thoughts to those suffering with Dementia. He will be laid to rest on Thursday, December 22, at 10 am in Crestlawn Cemetery in Riverside, California.  A private celebration of his life will be held the same day starting at 2 pm at the Canyon Crest Country Club.