Joseph Callan, manager of big city events

The Philadelphia event that Joseph F. Callan loved most was one he didn't organize: Since he was a child, he had participated in the Froggy Carr Mummers.

"He said once a year he did not want to plan an event but wanted to walk in the parade," colleague Jim Marino remembered.

Mr. Callan, special-events manager for Fairmount Park, died on Wednesday, Aug. 27, at age 60.

He was born in Philadelphia, attended Sacred Heart Grade School followed by St. John Neumann High School, from which he graduated in 1972.

Four years later he received a degree from Marquette University.

After working for a year at St. Joseph's University he shifted to the city's Recreation Department, where he stayed until his recent retirement.

Mr. Callan was the organizer behind countless big events in Philadelphia, from marathons to festivals, parades, and July 4th celebrations; from Live 8 to the first two years of Made in America.

"Without him events like this would not have been possible in the beginning," said Marino, who worked with him for many years. Mr. Callan had his eye on everything, said Marino, who described his colleague as an expert on logistics.

"From the people on the ground to city officials, to celebrated artists, Joe handled it all and met every challenge with pride. He got it done," said Bonnie Grant, who worked for nine years as deputy city representative with Mr. Callan.

Mr. Callan did not receive much public recognition but was honored during the Eagles' 75th anniversary season as one of the "75 Greatest Living Philadelphians." The fans had been asked to nominate individuals who played a significant role in the city's success.

Work meant everything to Mr. Callan, said his sister, Bridget Daly. "He has been on the job seven days."

His sister described a man who also brought his organizing skills to family relations. If there was a problem, "he fixed it," she said. "He got everything right."

In addition to his sister, Mr. Callan is survived by his companion, Karen Walls; brothers Mickey, James, Francis, and Charles; and sisters Eileen, Margaret, and Colleen. Sisters Patricia and Kathleen and his brother Patrick predeceased him.

A viewing will be held Wednesday, Sept. 3, from 8 to 10 a.m. followed by a Mass at 10:30 at Sacred Heart Church, 1404 S. Third St., Philadelphia.

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@ZiskaH