Robert Butler (Bob) Caldwell |
| Posted 2015-03-01 by Sharla |
| Arizona Daily Sun, Flagstaff, Arizona, Saturday, February 28, 2015 Robert Butler Caldwell December 3, 1921-February 6, 2015 Robert “Bob” Caldwell passed away on Feb 6, at the age of 93 in Flagstaff, AZ. He was born on December 3, 1921 in Manila, Philippines, to Elmer and Ethel (Butler) Caldwell. His father was in the Navy, so Bob lived in many places as a child: San Francisco, Chicago, San Diego, Honolulu, San Jose & Berkeley. He graduated from the University of California at Berkley in 1942 with a B.S. in Commerce. He also took classes in Meteorology & Climatology, and signed on with Pan American Airways as a Junior Meteorologist after graduation. He worked for PAA at Treasure Island (San Francisco), Honolulu & Canton Island. In 1948 he joined the National Weather Bureau as an Observer, then advanced to Meteorologist. He began his career in Nome, Alaska, transferring to Fairbanks then Anchorage, where he met the love of his life, Ruthella Wade. They were married in 1954. Bob had many passions and interests: airplanes (he owned two planes, one of which took them on their honeymoon) astronomy, weather, puzzles, mathematics, music, books and wood working. He built desks, dressers, shelving-you name it. He was an avid hiker, photographer and cribbage player. He told many a story about his life and adventures. Bob and Ruthella moved to Sunnyvale, CA in 1960, where he finished his career with the Weather Service in 1978. They moved to Flagstaff in 1990, continuing to enjoy travel, symphonies and theatre. They enjoyed nearly 58 years of marriage until her passing in 2012. Bob was an active member of NARFE, PAA and Alaska Yukon Pioneers. He supported Flagstaff Symphony, California Academy of Sciences, Lowell Observatory and many others. Bob is survived by son Brian (Denise) of Colorado Springs, CO; daughters Jennifer Cook (George) of Anchorage, AK and Vickie Stephens (John) of Pioneer, CA; grandchildren Brian Lloyd, Nathan and Angeline Caldwell; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruthella, his parents, and two sisters. He lived a long, interesting life and was a wonderful father and devoted husband. He will be missed by all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be held at the Joe Montoya Senior Center, Flagstaff, AZ on May 22nd from 3:00-6:00pm. |
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