Robert L. "Bob" Caldwell

Robert Lawson "Bob" Caldwell, 91, of Albion, IL, passed peacefully July 28, 2025. Born April 11, 1934 to Benton and LaVon (nee Bower) Caldwell in Hutsonville, IL, he lived a life marked by service and family.

A proud veteran, Bob served in the United States Marine Corps from 1952 to 1956. He then served as a state trooper in the Illinois State Police from 1957 to 1985. He continued his career in law enforcement as he was elected Sheriff of Edwards County from 1990 to 1994, where he was respected for his honesty and integrity.

On October 11, 1958, Bob married Linda Faye Markman. They raised four children: Lyndall Caldwell of Kansas City, MO, Marla (Larry) Alexander of Anacortes, WA, Larry (Stefania) Caldwell of Royse City, TX, and Carol (Steve) Knackmuhs of Albion. He was a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Although he was a lifelong Cubs fan, Bob never met a game he didn't love to watch, listen to, or play. His enthusiasm extended to the softball field, where he played in the Citrus Park men's league as well as coached many of Linda's women's league teams during winters in Florida from 1996 to 2011.

He was a member and over the years, taught Sunday school and served as an elder of West Village Christian Church, a source of spiritual strength and community. He also served as a board member of the Albion Public Library.

Five years ago Bob said at mealtime to close family members, "I have had a great life," and said then he was ready to go at any time.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Benton and LaVon Caldwell and sisters Rosemary Post and June Berk. He is survived by his wife, Linda; their four children; his brother Benton (Suzy) Caldwell; nine grandchildren--Scott, John (Jessica), Andrew (Savannah), Lauren (David), Melissa and Robert Caldwell, Joel and Allison Knackmuhs and Trevor Peterson, a great-grandchild--Beatrix and many nieces and nephews.

Members of the community have often told the family what an important role and positive impact Bob had in their lives.

Visitation will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, August 1, 2025, at West Village Christian Church followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. Burial will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to West Village Christian Church in memory of Bob and will be accepted at the service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.nalesfuneralhome.com. Nale's Funeral Home of Albion is honored to serve and support the Caldwell family.