Retired Third Circuit Court Judge James Callahan, who was deeply rooted in his Michigan community and known for his dedication to public service, has died at 82. According to an obituary from the Detroit Free Press, Callahan died unexpectedly on Jan. 13, shortly after returning from a trip to Mexico with his partner of eight years, Marcia Cron.
Cron stated "He was the best thing in my life. He made my life great, easy, and fun. He went all out," In addition to his commitment to his partner and his love for travel, Callahan led a life marked by community engagement and a passion for the law. After serving as a trial attorney for 33 years, he was elected to Michigan’s largest Circuit Court in 2004 and, was reelected in 2010, according to a statement obtained by The Detroit News.
A Chicago native and a U.S. Navy veteran, Callahan was an active participant in numerous local organizations. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1965, much of it aboard the USS Savage, as noted on his online obituary at the Verheyden Funeral Home website. Post-naval life included a long-standing connection to his alma mater, participation in veteran groups, and a commitment to volunteering, including delivering Meals on Wheels through The Helm in Grosse Pointe.
He was known for his love of traditional Irish songs and history books; his range in singing was described as "loud and louder," according to his obituary at verheyden.org. Beyond his love for song and story, he deeply believed in the Jesuit mantra of being "Men for Others," and this ethos was evident in his dedication to serving his community. In addition to his community pursuits, Judge Callahan is survived by his son Michael, daughter Katherine, brother John, sister Bridget Stalvey, granddaughter Daphne, and his partner, Marcia Cron.
The Frank Murphy Hall of Justice Historical Society paid tribute to Callahan with a memorial wake at the Old Shillelagh Irish pub. The memorial wake was announced on social media and took place on a Thursday afternoon, welcoming those who wished to honor and remember Callahan's legacy.
