Obituary of Bryon Le Roy CALLAGHAN

It is with extreme sorrow that the family of Bryon LeRoy Callaghan announce his passing on May 1, 2018.

Bryon was born in Empress, Alberta but was raised in Buffalo, Alberta. He attended high school in Brooks, Alberta and later moved to Calgary where he attended the University of Calgary. After graduation, Bryon worked as a nurse at the Colonel Belcher Care Centre and the General and Holy Cross Hospitals.

In 1980, Bryon chose a new career path as a make-up artist for the television and movie industry. He became head make-up artist at John Casablanca, then opened Salon 512 with Don. Bryon was able to travel the world doing make-up and always said, “It is not a job, I love what I do”. He worked as a hair and makeup designer for the opening ceremonies of the 1988 Olympics. During the Olympics, he also worked for ABC as the makeup artist for all the on camera hosts and commentators. Bryon was able to teach many colleagues the tricks of the trade and how to improvise on a movie set in the middle of nowhere. In October 2017, Bryon was able to accomplish a dream. He was able to work on a movie set in Los Angeles. He would proudly tell his sisters, “you can now tell my nieces and nephews I’ve worked in LA”. For the last 30 years, Bryon was the make-up designer for the Young Canadians of the Calgary Stampede and they always held a special place in his heart. Bryon also worked at his tranquil place, Spruce Meadows, also for the last 30 years.

Bryon also enjoyed entertaining with some lavish and delicious meals. He and Don always held enormous feasts at Christmas and New Years that were attended by many friends. The Oscars was another special time, where 30 to 40 people would gather at their house to watch the award ceremonies. TV sets and food were always plentiful during this time.

Amidst  throwing lavish parties, Bryon and Don loved to go lawn bowling and 10-pin bowling. Bryon was a member of the Rainbow Riders Bowling League for 12 seasons.

Baking and making jam and pickles were another love of Bryon’s. He would give these items to his friends and family. Bryon’s Christmas cakes were out of this world! Bryon was so talented he entered the Chestermere Fair contests for 5 years, and won the grand prize twice. He would always come home with a ribbon for his entries.

Bryon will always be remembered for his infectious smile and a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. He had a big heart and gave a helping hand to so many.

Bryon is survived by his husband Don Olson, step-sons Jamie (Nicole and grandson Cameron) and Michael, brother Greg, sisters Donna Christman and Beverly Andrus, special aunt Ruth, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bryon was predeceased by his mother Rachel in 1981, father LeRoy in 2012, sister Teresa in 1965, and brother Garry in 2009.

A Celebration of Bryon’s Life will be held at Knox United Church (506 – 4th Street S.W., Calgary, AB) on Sunday, June 03, 2018 at 3:00 p.m.   Reception to follow at the church hall.