Joseph Patrick Callaghan

Joseph "Big Pat" Callaghan, age 86 formerly of Columbus, Ohio, passed away in the company of his spirited family on March 16, 2026. Son of Dorothy and Daniel Callaghan, he was preceded in death by his parents, Brother Jerry, mother of his four children, Carolyn Brady Callaghan, and daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Callaghan.

Pat grew up in Columbus, attending St. Augustine Elementary School and graduating from Aquinas High School in the class of 1958. In 1960, he married Carolyn Brady, with whom he had four children. He was active in his kids’ school, acting as the Pack Master for the Cub Scouts at North Linden Elementary School for many years. He was known for his float building for the scouts’ participation in Fourth of July Parades, many camping trips, and Pinewood Derby Races. He was also known for his ability to gather the neighborhood kids together for pick-up games of baseball, football, and winter snowball fights. The family home was often adorned by the most elaborate displays for Halloween and Christmas, which everyone enjoyed.

His life-long work, until his retirement, was with Battelle Memorial Institute, working his way from the paint crew, to the electrical shop, to monitoring systems for Battelle’s many government contracts. He participated for many years in the Linden Northeast Lions Club.

His life was marked by his bigger than life smile, and his ability to have fun. He loved watching his daughter’s dance recitals, his oldest son’s theater plays, and total support of his two youngest son’s performances on the football and baseball field. He loved tending the baseball fields during son Phil’s years as a baseball coach at Columbus DeSales and Dublin Scioto High School, where he was affectionately known as “Mr. C.”

For many years in retirement, he enjoyed living between Haines City, Florida and Columbus, Ohio. In Florida, he met Ruth, and they were married in 2006, enjoying nearly 20 years of travel, and a passion for garage sales.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Leslie Callaghan and her children of Butler, Pennsylvania; his children Patrick, Phil (MaryBeth), Cindy Hickey (Tom), and John (Jackie). He was adored by his 10 grandchildren, 2 great grandsons, siblings, nieces, nephews, and many long-time friends.

A private burial was held immediately in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania, following his death. A celebration of his life will be hosted by his children at 3-6 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at the clubhouse at the Tremont Club Condominiums, 4800 Tremont Club Drive in Hilliard. It will be a time of fond memories and fellowship.

Donations may be made to the MoMM Foundation in his honor and memory. Venmo: @mommfoundation (Polk or 9529). Or check may be mailed to MoMM Foundation, c/o 154 Helmbright Ct.,Gahanna Ohio 43230. Please designate in memory of Pat Callaghan)

Always with a smile on his face, and rarely knowing a stranger, Pat lived his life in full measure, and he is treasured and missed by many.