David George Calderwood

Raised on a small farm, David learned early the value of hard work, perseverance, and responsibility—qualities that shaped the course of his life. He pursued higher education with determination, earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah. Later in life, after completing his professional career, he returned to school and earned a Master’s degree in Latin American Studies from the University of Texas at Austin with the express purpose of completing his lifelong research and writing.

As a young man, David served a two-and-a-half-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Uruguay and Paraguay. That experience shaped his lifelong love for the people, language, and culture of Latin America and set the foundation for much of his future work and service.

David served his country with honor for over 30 years. He spent five years in the United States military, attaining the rank of Captain, followed by a distinguished 25-year career as an operations officer with the Central Intelligence Agency. His work took him across Latin America and beyond, where he developed a deep understanding of history, language, and culture.

David lived a life guided by strong faith. He believed deeply in purpose, prayer, and divine direction, and that belief carried him through a lifetime of service to his country and his church. His experiences took him across Latin America and beyond, where he developed a profound understanding of history, language, and culture.

One of his greatest accomplishments was his book, Voices from the Dust, which he considered his life’s most important work. The book reflected decades of study, research, and dedication. More than scholarship, it represented his testimony and his desire to share truth and strengthen the faith of others. It stood as the culmination of his life’s efforts and a contribution he deeply cherished.

Above all, David was devoted to his family. He was married to his beloved wife, Della Calderwood, for 44 years, having been married on January 29, 1982. Their life together was centered on love, faith, and commitment.

He is survived by his wife, Della Calderwood; his children, Daniel Calderwood, Thomas Calderwood, Charles Dieteman, Camille Calderwood and David Calderwood; his siblings, Carmen Southern, Kayla Phillips, and Thayne Calderwood; as well as 19 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Carina Calderwood, and his brother, Dee Calderwood.

David will be remembered as a man of integrity, faith, and purpose—a man who worked hard, believed deeply, and loved his family with all his heart. His influence will continue to be felt through the lives he touched, the family he raised, and the work he leaves behind.

A visitation will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 25479 Bulverde Road, San Antonio, Texas 78261, on April 11, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm.

A funeral service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 25479 Bulverde Road, San Antonio, Texas 78261, on April 11, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm, with livestream available at https://zoom.us/j/92657229065.

A graveside service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Shelter #1, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209, on April 13, 2026, at 10:00 am.