BCAT News

Lee W. Callahan, retired Burlington Fire Chief, peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family, on the morning of Monday, January 6, 2025. He was 71 years old, his obituary from Sullivan Funeral Home states. 

He was one of five sons to Daniel and Jean (Crawford) Callahan. He grew up in Burlington and graduated from Burlington High School in 1971. Lee later earned his Associate’s Degree in Fire Science from Middlesex Community College and his Bachelor’s Degree in Fire and Emergency Management from Rivier University.

Lee began his career with the Burlington Fire Department in 1978. Over the next 30 years, through his dedication and hard work, he rose through the ranks. 

“He was a mentor and a role model to all the firefighters, respected for his unwavering faith, dignity, and the kindness he showed to everyone around him,” his obituary reads. “Lee led by example, always setting high standards for fire safety and the behavior expected within the firehouse. While he cherished his role as a firefighter, he also committed himself to learning how to be a strong, compassionate leader. He valued honesty, was always willing to listen, and made sure to support his team by fighting for their best training and equipment, and always having their backs. Lee believed in the importance of learning from mistakes, making space for growth, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the fire service.”

“Lee had a profound trust in the systems that had helped him rise through the ranks, but he understood the importance of change, whether in management, procedures, or technology in order to ensure the safety of his crew and the protection of the Burlington community,” his obituary describes. “Each time the bell rang and a truck rolled out, Lee prayed for the safe return of his firefighters and the well-being of those in need. This responsibility weighed heavily on him, but he carried it with grace until his retirement.”

Beyond his work in the fire department, Lee represented the Burlington community in many ways. He hosted the Burlington Cable Access Television show “Fireworks” and served as the Regional Director of the Fellowship of Christian Firefighters International. In 1993, he was honored with the “Recognition of Service Above and Beyond the Call of Duty” from the Town of Burlington for his heroic efforts. Reflecting on his career in a retirement interview, Lee humbly said, “I have been blessed to rise to a leadership position and work with some incredible people, both at the department and in other town departments.” It was this humility and thoughtful nature that made him such a beloved Chief.

Lee Callahan’s Career Timeline

• 1975-1978 Burlington Civil Defense Auxiliary Fire Department
• 07/01/1978 Appointed Full-Time Burlington Firefighter
• 06/26/1989 – 07/26/1989 – Acting Lieutenant
• 03/01/1993 – 04/27/1993 – Acting Lieutenant
• 04/27/1993 Appointed Lieutenant
• 09/30/2001 – 12/09/2001 Acting Fire Prevention/Inspection Lieutenant
• 9/01/2002   Acting Assistant Chief (While Lieutenant)
• 02/24/2003 Appointed Captain (While Acting Assistant Chief)
• 03/17/2003 Appointed Assistant Chief
• 11/01/2004 Appointed Chief
• 07/03/2010 Retired

Lee was a man of deep faith, which guided him throughout his life. He was active in every church he attended, serving as a choir member in three different congregations. He served as Deacon, Elder, and a member of the Safety Committee at Centerpoint Community Church in Salem, NH. He had a desire for sharing his faith and loved engaging in one-on-one conversations. He attended Bible study and even preached when called upon. His faith inspired others to reflect on their own lives and prioritize what was truly important.

When surrounded by close friends and family, Lee’s reserved public persona would melt away, and he became a source of great wit, humor, and warmth.

Lee was the beloved husband of Candace (Burbine-Wade) Callahan of Salem, NH and the late Maryanne (Weisse) Callahan.  He was the loving father of Erin Stevens & her husband Scott of Salem, NH, David Callahan & his wife Heather of Plaistow, NH, Scott Wade & his wife Heather of Andover, and Kelly Wade-Rolon & her husband Dennis of Bloomingburg, NY.  He was the proud grandfather of Owen, Isobel, & Chloe Callahan, Ryleigh, Keira, and Kaden Stevens, Timothy Burditt, Julia & Grace Wade, and Connor, Emily, Cameron, & Emmi Rolon.  Lee was the brother of William Callahan & his wife Christine of Burlington, Richard Callahan & his wife Marcia of Billerica, Wayne Callahan & his wife Joanne of Burlington, and John “Jake” Callahan & his wife Holly of Woburn.  Lee was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Lee’s absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy, through his work in the Burlington Fire Department, his church, and, most of all, in the hearts of his family, will live on. He will be lovingly remembered and never forgotten.

You can read his full obituary here.