Paul Caldwell

Paul David Caldwell joined his beloved eternal companion on December 28, 2012, just 4 days short of his 90th birthday.

Paul was born on January 1, 1923 to Jess and Iva Caldwell. He was raised in Dry Fork and Ashley Valley, working hard on the family farm and taking on a grown man's responsibilities when only a young boy. He married Barbara Jo Holmes on July 10, 1944 and they were later sealed on March 10, 1965 in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity.

Shortly after marriage, Paul left to serve his country in World War II as a top turret gunner on the B24 in the 44th Bombardment Group. He served until 1945 and was released with honors one of which was the Air Medal for "exceptionally meritorious achievement while participating in bomber combat missions over occupied Europe. The coolness and skill displayed by this man upon these occasions reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States" reads the citation. Until very recently, Paul still corresponded with another unit member. These two were the only remaining members of that group.

Paul returned home from war to raise a family and farm with Barbara. He worked many years in the gilsonite mine, but his real dream was to own his own place. His long hours at the mine and the farm paid off not only in good hay ground, but also leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A life of hard work, sacrifice, "giving a man your word and keeping it", and "never taking something for nothing" are ideals that are instilled in his family's hearts.

Paul is a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and has a strong testimony of the restored gospel. He is an example of enduring faith and patience to his family- participating in the monthly extended-family home evenings' tradition and many, many Sunday dinners. He looked forward to being with Grandma again and suffered patiently until the day she would take him Home.

Paul was befriended by a special lady, Shirley Ward, during his service in the temple, They had weekly lunches at Golden Corral then "drank rootbeer and play Solitaire". He also enjoyed the daily visits with the Meals on Wheels ladies and would brag on them to all of us when we came by to visit. The family sincerely appreciates the service and love these good people showed to him.

Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; parents, Jess and Iva Caldwell; siblings, Karl, Claudia, Nyle and Lyle.

He is survived by his daughter LeeAnn (Jim) Walker, son Morgan (Darla) Caldwell.

Grandchildren Amanda (Matt) Mitchell, Angela (Miles) Hanberg, Nolan (Abbilyn) Caldwell, Rebecca (Daniel) Averett, and Wayne Caldwell.

Great-grands: Connor, Gracie, Britten, Ashlynn, Myleia, Jacub, Alegna, Brigham, and Eli.

Funeral Services were held Thursday, January 3, 2012 at 11 AM at the Davis First Ward (3990 South 1500 East). A viewing was held Wednesday evening from 6-8pm at the Ashley Valley Funeral Home (located across from the Freestone Legacy Walking Park) and Thursday 9:45~10:45 am at the Church. Interment was in the Vernal Memorial Park with military honors provided by American Legion and the Utah National Guard.