He was born on February 15, 1936 to Clyde and Margaret (Rohman) Caldwell. He married Darlene Buschbom on December 3, 1955 in Peoria. She preceded him in death in 2008. Also preceding him in death were his parents, one brother, Tom Caldwell; and four sisters, Margaret Ann Caldwell, Rita Brecklin, Mary Schultz and Bernadette Langan.
Surviving are his four children, Jack (Sue) Caldwell of Germantown Hills, Jim Caldwell also of Germantown Hills, Jerry Caldwell of Peoria, and Jill (Dean) Litherland of Tremont; nine grandchildren, Courtney, Justin, Matthew (Jamie), Jacey (Aaron), Carley (Mike), Catey (Mike), Rachel, Jeremy (Jen), and Jerad (Cyd). Also surviving are ten great-grandchildren, Carter, Carmen, Nora, Zoey, Eliza, Isaac, Anna, Cody, Audrina, Streater, and Jensen; four siblings, Dick (Marlene) Caldwell, Dan (Bev) Caldwell, Angie Easter, and Lori Koger; and a brother-in-law, Robert (Bryan) Lancaster.
John served in the U.S. Navy and worked as a Brick Layer for many years with the Brick Layers Union Local #8 in Peoria. He was a Past Commodore of the Navy Marine Club in Peoria Heights, a member of the Detweiller Yacht Club, American Legion Post 2 and the VFW.
John was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Peoria and enjoyed boating, camping, riding his scooter and socializing. He will be remembered for his energic personality and love of people.
A private family service will be held at the Resurrection Mausoleum Chapel with burial of the urn to follow. A celebration of life will be held for family and friends at 4pm on Friday, October 22, 2021 at the East Peoria Boat Club. Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton is charge of arrangements.
Memorials contributions can be made to St. Jude or the Diabetes Association in his memory. Words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.woolsey-wilton.com.
