Darrel Calahan

Darrel R. Calahan, age 68, of Colony, Kansas, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Life Care Center in Burlington, Kansas.

Darrel Rex Calahan was born on July 31, 1957, in Iola, Kansas, the son of Ivan Rex and Tena (Runnells) Calahan. He was the fourth of five children and a lifelong resident of Colony. Darrel graduated from Crest High School with the class of 1975. Following his education, he served in the United States Army from 1977 to 1981. A proud member of the 82nd Airborne Division, he was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, until he was honorably discharged.

On October 20, 1979, Darrel was united in marriage to Diane Sprague in Lone Elm, Kansas. This marriage was blessed with two children, Jennifer and Tyler.

Known for an off-the-wall sense of humor and a tendency to say exactly what was on his mind, Darrel was a true character. He was a talented woodworker who spent much of his time in his shop building wooden toolboxes, doghouses, and anything else he saw a need for. He enjoyed scouring thrift stores and antique shops for tools and furniture. While he took great pride in his handiwork, often accompanied by a few choice "working words" when a project got difficult, his greatest joys were his grandchildren. Darrel was a natural talker who could strike up a conversation with anyone, and he never missed a chance to say, "I love you."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Tena Calahan, and two brothers, Larry Calahan and Robert Calahan.

Darrel is survived by his wife, Diane Calahan, of the home; one daughter, Jennifer Lower and husband Jamie of Iola, Kansas; one son, Tyler Calahan and wife Savannah of Dickinson, North Dakota; six beloved grandchildren, Natalee and Abby Lower, and Ian, Mataya, Oaklyn, and Cohen Calahan. He also leaves behind one sister, Nancy Henderson of Olathe, Kansas; brother, Doug Calahan of Colony; and two dogs, Izzy and Spike.

Darrel's family will greet friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Friday, April 3, 2026 in the Venue at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 1883 US Hwy 54, Iola, Kansas 66749. Memorial contributions may be made to ACARF and left in care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.