Birge William Calhoun, 63, of Chatham died unexpectedly at Albany Medical Center Wednesday April 24th, 2018. As in life, he died with dignity, surrounded by his loving wife and cherished family. Birge was predeceased by his parents William H. and Betty (Van Tassel) Calhoun of Chatham, NY, and is survived by his brother Van (Sue) Calhoun. Birge was born January 4, 1955. He and wife, Maggie (Hanson), who would be celebrating 40 years together in May, raised four strong, loving and loyal children, Zachary P. (Alison Nichol), William W. (Meghan Coon), Hannah B. (Kevin Pastor), and B. Quinn (Cady Sardo). He was blessed with three precious grandchildren, Simone, Fiona, Leo and was eagerly anticipating the birth of a fourth in June. Upon graduation in 1973 from Chatham High School, Birge enjoyed adventures all over the world. He hitchhiked across Europe getting stuck in Greece during a 1974 coup d'etat . He was ship's carpenter on a sailboat for the Windjammer Cruises in the Leeward Islands. In 1978, he became a certified scuba instructor in Florida. Upon returning to Columbia County he built a home with Maggie, where they raised their children, the ninth generation, on The Birge family land. Birge was supportive and influential to many of the young adults who frequented his home. He loved to share his wisdom and make dinners for them, especially his beloved nephews and niece, Owen, Kate, and Mac. Birge owned and operated Birge Calhoun LLC. He along with sons Zachary and William and (almost-son), Kerner Wood, have been building, restoring, and improving homes throughout Columbia County for nearly 20 years. The many extended-family and friends who love Birge are cordially invited to join us for a celebration of his life later in the summer, date to be determined. Birge loved the water, boats, woodworking and education. Any charity you deem suitable, please support in his honor. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com