Richard Dale Caldwell PHD

Dr. Richard Dale Caldwell died peacefully on April 12, 2015 in Palm Harbor, Florida at the age of 73. Dale is survived by his wife of 51 years Sidney Lindsey, daughters Ann Adair (Jonathan) of Tampa and Rosemary Collins (Stan) of Palm Harbor, son Allen Caldwell (Jill Hoffman) of Tampa; grandchildren Elizabeth Margaret and William Edison Adair, Lindsey Kay and Griffin Andrew Collins, and Henry James Caldwell; brothers Dr. Gary B. Caldwell of Chattanooga, Tennessee and Steve Caldwell of Interlochen, Michigan, and sister Rosemary White of Jackson, Mississippi. He is preceded in death by his parents Gladen and Mary Louise Caldwell of Flora, Mississippi. Dale was born on May 19, 1941 in Jackson, Mississippi to Richard Gladen Caldwell and Mary Louise Jenkins. After graduating from Flora High School in 1959 as Valedictorian, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi in 1963. He attended graduate school at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, and earned a Master of Science (1965) and Doctor of Philosophy (1969) degrees in biology, specializing in ichthyology and systematics. He married Sidney Lindsey, daughter of the Rev. and Mrs. J. Allen Lindsey, in 1963. Throughout his career as a college professor, environmental consultant, and fisheries scientist, he shared his fascination and love of the natural world with all who would listen. He loved nature photography, boating, cooking, and spending time with his family. On any given Sunday, you could find him at home with his wife, grilling hamburgers, and relaxing in the pool with the grandkids. A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m., Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at Fresh Start Church. Rev. Scott Welch will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Dale’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Fresh Start for Kids, 13966 Lynmar Blvd., Tampa, FL 33626. Fresh Start for Kids is a life-changing summer camp for foster kids.