Letter: O’Callaghan always sought to help others

Tuesday, March 9, 2004 | 9:12 a.m.

I stopped in at a fabric store on Saturday to buy supplies for a project. As the clerk was measuring out the ribbon I had selected, she and the other clerk were speaking of things that make you feel old. She remarked, "My history teacher died yesterday, Mike O'Callaghan, and that made me feel old."

I then told her I had worked with him at the Sun for a few years, and found him to be a good, hardworking man who, nevertheless, always had time for others. We continued the conversation with a couple of funny stories of our association with him. After I left the store, it struck me that in the years I have known him, I have yet to hear a derogatory remark from anyone about this kind man.

His influence has had impact throughout all levels of our society and through all walks of life. I particularly remember his kindness to me during a stressful time in my life. When I tried to thank him and remarked I could never repay him, he simply said, "The best payback you can give me is to help someone when you are able to do so. Just pass it on." I have never forgotten it, and have tried my best to comply.

The world is the poorer for the loss of Mike O'Callaghan, but I like to think that somewhere he is still helping others. My deepest sympathies go out to his family.

NANCY HARDIN