Thomas Callan Obituary

Thomas Francis Callan passed away at his home on October 22, 2025, after a long and difficult battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 89 years old. Despite the discomfort he experienced during the period of his treatment, Tom retained his trademark optimism, good cheer and always had a ready smile.
Tom was born on March 10, 1936, to Mary Ellen O'Neil Callan and Terrance Callan in Chicago. His parents were both born in Ireland, met in Chicago, married and had 5 children, of which Tom was the last. A life-altering event occurred when Tom was 10 when his father died in a traffic accident. This robbed him of a carefree boyhood but ultimately made him an independent, capable, brave, and compassionate man.
Tom attended Catholic grade school and Fengar High in Chicago, but family circumstances precluded any further education. He worked odd jobs as a young boy but after high school he chose beauty school and became a hair stylist. Tom's effervescent personality and competence as a stylist made him a rapid success in Chicago. In the early 1960's, Tom decided to move to Los Angeles. He was equally successful in California, and he was determined to be his own boss, so he opened his own salon in the West Los Angeles area, where he practiced for almost 40 years. His gift for listening and his sage advice made him a confidant of virtually all his clients.
Tom's love of family - biological family and chosen family - led him to be a gatherer of people. He bought a home in West Los Angeles and transformed the house and the surrounding garden into a place of beauty. Tom's home was his castle and he shared it generously.
In the early 1970's, on a weekend visit to Palm Springs, Tom met Edward McCann. Their connection was immediate and magical. Over their 50 years together, Ed became Tom's life partner and husband. Tom discovered the joy of traveling through Ed's insistence that they see the world, an unimaginable idea for a boy from the South Side of Chicago. As a couple, they created a warm and inviting space that they shared with their many friends, proving that the best relationships aren't inward-turning but, rather, embrace and bless everyone.
Tom was predeceased by his sister, Marge, and three brothers: John, Terrance, and Raymond. He is survived by his husband, Edward, several nieces and nephews and their offspring.
A Celebration of Life service will be held March 7, 2026. For further information, please call 424-298-1851.