Robert Douglas Caldwell

Robert Douglas Caldwell, age 94, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2023. He was born on February 6, 1929, and spent his formative years in Eastern Kentucky, until he joined the Navy at the age of 16. Robert served with honor as a Senior Chief in the US Navy, working as a boiler technician. After dedicating twenty years to the service, he retired and became a valued member of the fleet reserve. Throughout his life, he also volunteered at Seashore State Park, showing his commitment to his community. A man of extraordinary character, integrity, and a deep love for family, Robert dedicated his life to being a wonderful father. He was renowned for his delicious deviled eggs and pineapple upside-down cake, and always looked forward to Friday night pinochle games with neighbors Roy and Barbara Clement. Gardening and working in the yard brought him great joy, and he generously contributed his time to help coach kids’ softball. Fair, honest, and always willing to listen and offer advice, Robert would drop everything to help others without a second thought. Family was always his top priority, and whatever he committed to, he gave it his all, never doing anything halfway. Robert was preceded in death by his loving wife Ruth Bell Caldwell, his mother Anna Laura Elizabeth Gibson, his father Ossie Leigh Caldwell, and his brothers Jack and Taylor, as well as his sisters Lois and Jenny. Survivors include his brother Jim (Betty) Caldwell, three daughters: Marcia C. Kline Newcomb and spouse Thomas Dale Newcomb, Deborah J. Caldwell and spouse Gloria Feldman, and Helene Caldwell, and his loving son David B. Caldwell of Virginia Beach. Grandchildren: Lori (Ross) Kline Huddleston, Kristy Kline, Diana (Jaton) Kline Blaney; Geoff (Liz) Kruvand & Nikki (Jason) Winckel; Kellie (Matt) Potter and Katie Baker; Great-grandchildren: Callie Joy, Holly, and Evelyn Huddleston; Kendal and Brendan Pierce; Gabriel Blaney; Maya Kruvand, Brooklyn & Emerson Winckel; Grayson, Harper, and Baker Potter; and a host of nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday in the Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 E. Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk, Va. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, and a reception will follow the ceremony. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.woodlawnnorfolk.com.