Everett Cole McCallum

We are heartbroken to share that on Thursday November 2nd, 2023, Everett Cole McCallum passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, at home in his sleep.  He was 12 years old.

He is now lovingly reunited with his twin brother Tate Walker McCallum, who predeceased him 6 days after their birth, and his maternal grandmother Rosemary Calhoun, who predeceased him in 2008.  He is survived by his devoted parents David McCallum and Melanie Calhoun, and cherished sister Paige McCallum. He will be deeply missed by his paternal grandparents Mary and Duncan McCallum and maternal grandfather Dennis Calhoun, as well as his many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members.

Everett was born prematurely, just minutes after twin brother Tate, on May 4th, 2011, at 26 weeks gestation.  Though doctors warned he may not survive, Everett fought very hard and was finally released home to us after 196 days in the NICU.  In the years that followed, he faced many physical and health-related challenges that required him to endure hospitalizations, therapies, surgeries and medical procedures, all through which he rarely shed a tear.  His unwavering strength and bravery will forever be a testament to his remarkable spirit.

Throughout his life, Everett displayed a charming sense of humor and he relished in playfulness.  Despite being non-verbal, he adeptly conveyed his wants and needs to those around him.  He loved being at home with his family, nurses and caregivers, where he enjoyed listening to stories, watching cartoons, swimming in the pool, going for walks and bike rides and relaxing in his outdoor swing.  His other favourite place to be was at school, where he played in the ball pit room with his classmates, enjoyed dance parties in the sensory room, shared switch toys with friends and rode his bike through the halls and around the school grounds.

Everett's radiant smile had a contagious warmth that touched the hearts of many, leaving a deep and enduring impression on everyone he encountered.  He taught others to have greater acceptance for, and understanding of, diversity and those who are differently-abled.  From the day he was born, he transformed us; reshaping us into more attentive, compassionate and caring people and parents. He challenged us to find inner strength we never knew we had and taught us countless lessons about love, joy, patience, resilience, courage and acceptance.

Raising and caring for Everett throughout his life took a village.  Our eternal gratitude extends to the doctors, nurses and therapists who played a vital role in caring for his health and well-being, including staff from St. Joseph's Hospital London, London Health Sciences Centre, Brampton Civic Hospital, The Hospital for Sick Children, Lakeridge Health, ErinoakKids, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Centre and Grandview Kids.  

At home, Everett received care and support from a remarkable team of personal support workers, nurses and respite workers, whose dedication to him will never be forgotten. At school, his teacher and educational assistants went the extra mile on a daily basis to create a loving environment that made Everett happy, comfortable and feeling like he belonged.  Lastly, we remain forever thankful for the support received from family, friends and colleagues both during Everett's life and in the period following his passing.

Cremation has taken place. Please join us for a heartfelt celebration of life as we remember and honour the life of Everett McCallum. 

This in-person event will be held on Saturday April 13th, 12:00pm to 2:00pm at Low & Low Funeral Home at 1763 Reach Street, Port Perry, ON. The event location is fully accessible. Tributes will begin at 12:30pm and will be recorded for future viewing. A light lunch will be provided.

We invite friends, family, colleagues and loved ones of all ages to gather together as we pay tribute to Everett's courageous life journey. Attendees are encouraged to wear bright colours.  We look forward to seeing you.

Please RSVP here  by Sunday April 7th, 2024, so that we can ensure adequate refreshments are on hand.  If you wish to participate in the tributes, either by speaking or providing a written tribute that will be read on your behalf, kindly inform us via the RSVP link provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of the following organizations that provided funding and support for Everett’s needs: Easter Seals Ontario, Grandview Kids, Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy.

Memories may be shared at lowandlow.ca