Katherine Elaine Calahan's Obituary
Katherine Elaine Calahan was born June 18, 1945 in Panama City Florida to parents Cleo Eli Shivers Sr. and Maggie Lee McGuire. The family migrated to San Diego CA in 1959. Katherine graduated from San Diego High School in 1963. At an early age Katherine found interest in extracurricular activities. In high school she was an active member of the drill team. Following high school Katherine continued her education and graduated in 1965 from San Diego Mesa College with an associate degree in Business Administration. Katherine used her administrative skills in her first job as a customer service rep at JC Penny’s. Her talents led her to higher goals and she began her career at Naval Air Station North Island in 1967. She completed 38 years of service and retired as a GS12 in 2006. During her 38 year tenure she found time to raise 4 children and join the United States Naval Reserves. Katherine loved her children and her family. She was a dedicated mother and wife; always putting others first. Katherine learned early in life that the joy of the Lord was her strength. She loved attending church services and worshipping the Lord. Katherine birthed her first pride and joy in 1966, Damon Anthony. In 1968 Katherine married Michael Penny and from their union came her princess and second child, Charisse. As time moved on and much to her amazement Katherine was swept off her feet by Phillip Calahan, the love of her life. She and Phil married in 1978 and in 1979 they produced their bundle of joy, Patrick. Along the way Katherine nurtured a precious baby boy who stole her heart, Little Tony. Everyone knows that Katherine loved to cook but more than that she loved to EAT; especially her own cooking. She also loved her snacks; primarily varieties of chocolate. Katherine was not an idle person. Her pastime hobbies included attending plays, traveling, attending sporting events with her children and reading. She was a member of a book club, Toastmasters and The Red Hatters. Higher learning was her favorite pastime and her last accomplishment was obtaining a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix. Katherine’s playtime included playing board games like Scrabble and shopping. She was a bargain shopper and knew how to find hidden deals at the five dollar store. Red was her favorite color; whether shoes or clothes. She had style and was known as one the best dressed females on her high school campus. In essence, Katherine was a class act. Katherine passed peacefully on Thursday, June 6, 2019, surrounded by loving family members. Her sweet spirit will remain in our hearts. Preceding her in death is her loving husband, parents and step-mom. Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Charisse Penny; sons, Damon Penny, Patrick Calahan and Tony Tabbs; 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, 3 sisters, 2 brothers and a host of family members and friends.
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