Robert "Bob" Caldart

He loved the singer Judy Collins. We were talking about folk singers while working on our art projects 1969-1970. He was so right when he said she sang with a pitch that was right on. I guess one kind of artist can certainly recognize another kind of artist. Always he will be one of my favorite teachers.

My husband and I are so grateful having been in his class in high school. And for Jim going to Europe with him. We recently took a ride out to Hartford to see the neighborhood Mr. Caldart lived. Back then we were there at a art fair he sponsored to see the unique homes and crafts. It definitely has changed. He impressed us in so many ways artistically.

Mr. Caldart, (coincidence his name has the word "art" in it), and his Ceramic Art Classes are my high school memories from the Class of 1972. I still have a couple of the pieces-- not because they were that good but rather the good they represent. Loved Mr. Caldart.

Many of you may not know that before he was at Central, during the early '60's, Mr. Caldart taught at Brookfield Elementary School. He was just as beloved there as anywhere. One funny memory is of an Ice Cream Social for which he was decorating the cafeteria. He took some students outside somewhere to gather some pretty foliage as part of the scheme. Unfortunately, the foliage turned out to be poison sumac! Nobody was seriously hurt, but he was red (both literally and figuratively) for...

It was sad to hear that 'Mr. Caldart' , my art teacher passed away. Fond memories came back of being an AFS student in his class in the year 80-81, the interest he showed in our background and culture, his patience and encouragement in my first steps into the art world. Later I had a chance to meet in my own country on one of his stops on travelling through Belgium. It is a gift to have known him and it made my stay in Wisconsin even richer than it already was. My warm thoughts and...

Mr. Caldart was one of the kindest men I have ever known. I loved working in his classroom, being there was like breathing fresh air. I still have pots that I made in his class so long ago. My condolences to his friends and family at this sad loss. He was a wonderful man and blessed the lives of those around him. Laura Mundschau, Class of '91 (Stevens Point, WI)

I will never forget, of my exchange year (1992/1993), the kindness and the caring friendship that Mr. Caldart gave to us AFS students. It was a privilege to meet him and to learn so many things from him about life in the U.S. He was a nice and patient man. Ciao Bob, grazie.

To the family of Bob Caldart, so sorry to hear of your great loss. He was my ceramic teacher from 1974-1976 and he was always so patient and kind, and really did care about everyone, and wanted everyone to succeed, even when one of my pieces that went into the kiln looking a little sad and came out looking so beautiful, he'd make such encouraging comments, even though we both knew it was a happy accident, he always was positive and encouraging, letting everyone be an artist in their own way....

It was an honor, and a pleasure, to attend Saturday's service. Listening to those closest to him share their memories was inspiring. His legacy, live and love (and make) with joy, respect and integrity. He will be missed, and he will be remembered.