Nick Callen

Nick Arthur Callen, 80, of Gotebo, Oklahoma, passed away at home on December 9, 2023. He was born on May 29, 1943, to James and Lottie (wood) Callen in Norman, Oklahoma. Nick grew up and attended school in Cooperton until his Sophomore year, he then moved to Norman for his Junior and Senior year, graduating from Norman High School. After high school Nick attended college and received his master's degree in library science with a minor in Russian Studies from the University of Oklahoma. He married Judith Meissinger, she preceded him in death in 1996, and later married Karen Jenson and she preceded him in death in 2013. Nick worked as a Librarian at Bizzell Library at the University of Oklahoma, Bellingham College Library in the State of Washington, Pima College Library in Tucson, AZ,. In 1979, Nick took over the family ranch south of Cooperton, Oklahoma, while working in the library at Lawton Library and later at Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma. On the ranch Nick grew wheat and cotton and raised cattle, goats, pigs, chicken, trout, and catfish. His passion was bluegrass music. Nick played guitar, piano, and the fiddle, but was most accomplished at the banjo and mandolin. He was an avid OU fan. Nick will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, especially his family.

Survivors include:
Children: Blane Callen & wife, Mary, Gotebo, OK
Seth Callen & wife, Tara, Lawton, OK
Grandchildren: Garrett Callen, Melissa Callen, Chance Callen, Josie Callen, and Nick Callen
Brothers: Dale Callen & wife Marlee, OKC, OK
Paul Callen & wife Diane, Flower Mound, TX
Sister: Mary Janet Gilbert, Lubbock, TX
A host of nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Preceded in death by his parents: James and Lottie Callen, wives: Judith Meissinger and Karen Jenson, and granddaughter: Allyson Callen.