Monroe Community College mourns the passing of Professor Emeritus Eddy F. Callens, CEC, CCE, who died on May 14th after a long battle with brain cancer.
Born in Belgium, the youngest of eight children, Eddy became fascinated with food in his mother’s kitchen. He attended the Provincial School for Food and Tourism at Emile Gryson Insitute and served in the Belgium military before immigrating to the United States. He served in the United States Army from 1962-1965.
Eddy, who began his MCC career in 1969, became an award-winning chef, an outstanding educator, and for many years, served as the chairperson of MCC’s Food, Hotel and Tourism Department. In 1993, he was named Chef of the Year by the American Culinary Federation, Professional Chefs/Cooks Association of Rochester. Three years later he was the recipient of MCC’s Distinguished Professor of the Year Award for Excellence in Professional Service.
During his years at MCC, Eddy was well known for his dedication to the College, his service to students, his community involvement and his ice carvings. From high school fairs to open houses, he played an energetic role in recruiting students and for more than 10 years was the culinary expert on Channel 13’s morning show.
Upon his retirement more than 35 years later, he reflected on his start here, …”I was invited to place my feet in the wet cement that was MCC. Since that time, I have grown with the school in more ways than I ever imagined.” But Eddy wasn’t the only who learned something. Over the years, countless students reached out to thank him for starting them off in a career they love.
Predeceased by his parents and brothers Hubert and Peter, Eddy is survived by his wife, Laurie; his children, Mary-Ann (Robert) Rolfe, Eddy (Julie) Callens; bonus daughters, Rebecca and Alyssa Block; and grandchildren, Justin Rolfe; Hannah Rolfe; Austin Callens; and Caroline Callens. He is also survived by siblings, Ulric (Leona) Marie-Marthe, and Herman (Lucienne) Callens as well as Lily (Roger) VanAcoleyen; Nelly (Patrick) O’Connor; sister-in-law, Anita Callens,; niece, Rita; nephews, Paul, Robert, Mike (Lisa), Christopher and Damien(Monica); and many grand nieces and nephews.
There will be no prior calling. Services will be held at Spiritus Christi Church at a time to be announced. Donations can be made to the Monroe Community College Foundation to establish the Eddy Callens Memorial Scholarship. Donations can be made to the MCC Foundation, c/o Eddy Callens Memorial Scholarship, 228 East Main Street, Rochester, NY 14604 or at: https://www.monroecc.edu/depts/Foundation/pledges.htm.
Anne M. Kress
President
05/19/2011 |