Michael Francis Callanan, who was a longtime resident of Newtown, died unexpectedly at his home in Wytheville, Va., on August 8. Born on February 14, 1948, he grew up in Fairfield.

Mr Callanan was a veteran, having served with honor in the Vietnam War. After a long career with SNET, he retired and had recently settled in Virginia.

His brother Ronald Callanan, Sr, of Seymour and his partner, Wendy Ward; and his sister Josephine Glenys DiCamillo and her husband, Dean, of Stratford survive him. He was the beloved uncle of three nephews, as well as three nieces. He also left behind two pugs, who will miss him greatly. His parents, John and Dorothy Callanan of Fairfield, predeceased him.

Mr Callanan loved to travel. He spent a great deal of time driving across the United States. Always an active church member, he went on several church missions to countries such as Haiti, to help build schools and churches for those communities. As a member of Big Brothers and Big Sisters, he devoted many hours working with a number of boys and teens in Fairfield County. Recently, he had been a staunch supporter of St Jude's Children's Hospital.

His family will forever be grateful to his parish, Cedar Hill United Methodist Church, and his pastor, Anne Blair, for all their help and caring especially during this difficult time.

In Mr Callanan's memory, contributions can be made to St Jude's Children's Hospital at stjude.org, Big Brothers and Big Sisters at bbbs.org, or any other charity of one's choice.

Memorial services will be private.