The Rev. Robert Gerald Callihan, 82, of Richland, died peacefully surrounded by his loving wife and children Dec. 12, 2011, at Arbutus Park Manor.
Born March 2, 1929, in Johnstown, son of Hadson G. and Verna (Souders) Callihan. Preceded in death by parents; brother, Glenn; and cousin, Paul Callihan. Survived by wife, the former Eleanor Dabbs, Richland; daughters, Sheryl, wife of Daniel Mock, Bear Creek Township, Pa.; and Merrilee, wife of Ronald Saccol, Green Bay, Wis.; grandchildren, Ann K. Fiala, Sara E. Bryant, Anthony Saccol, Nathan Saccol and Rebecca Saccol; great-grandchildren, Caine Fiala, Lauren Bryant, Gillian Fiala and Daniel Bryant; niece, Debbie, wife of Jim Albert, Long Island, N.Y.; sister-in-law, Arlene Callihan Wilson, Venice, Fla.; and great-nephews, Cory, Christopher and Albert; also many cousins.
At the age of 12, Robert went forward during Evangelical services in the home church and accepted Christ as his Saviour and Lord. In his high school years, he was a leader in youth work, both in his home church and his district, and also in ecumenical groups. He was educated in Johnstown, Class of 1947; completed UPJ in 1951; received a bachelor's degree from Otterbein College in 1953; and Master of Divinity at United Seminary in 1957. He was a United Methodist licensed pastor for more than 50 years. Since ordination, he has served the following churches:
Mapleton Charge, 1957-1962; Hollsopple, 1962-1978; DuBois Lakeside, 1978-1986; and Johnstown First Church, 1986-1992; also served Beulah Church, 1992-1996, as associate pastor. Rev. Callihan worked in camping programs for children and youth throughout his ministry, including 20 years as director at Camp P.A.R.C. He served on the board at Arbutus Park Manor for 34 years.
Funeral service were held Dec. 15 at Arbutus Park Manor Chapel with the Rev. Jeffrey Popson, the Rev. William Schmeling and the Rev. Charles Shaffer, officiating. Interment, Richland Cemetery. Memorial contributions were made to Beulah United Methodist Church, Arbutus Park Manor or Arbutus Park Manor Fountain Fund.