Viola Caldwell

Viola Ruth Caldwell, 94, of Lawrence, Kansas passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 at Midland Hospice.

Viola was born on July 27, 1931 in Boise City Oklahoma, the daughter of Glenn and Ethel (Brown) Ottinger. She was one of seven children. In her younger years, she excelled in sports.

On November 22, 1948, Viola Ruth Ottinger and William “Bill” Merrell Caldwell were united in marriage in Raton, New Mexico. They were married for 63 years. They had two children, Vicki Lynn and William Dean.

After Bill retired, they traveled and enjoyed many getaways. Viola was devoted to her Christian beliefs. She was known by her family and friends as the Grandma who prayed for them. She loved babies and small children and would light up in their presence.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Caldwell; her son, William D. Caldwell; her parents; two sisters and three brothers.

She is survived by her daughter, Vicki Fisher (Carl); brother, Fred Ottinger (Donna); four grandchildren, Lisa Eddis (Craig), Julie Venables (Brent), Josh Caldwell (Jolene) and Sarah McLaughlin (Jason); nine great grandchildren, Nick and Joey Eddis; Jake, Tyler, Laney and Addie Venables; Sydney and Brady Laugen and Brooke McLaughlin.

A private inurnment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Midland Hospice Care, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606. The family would like to thank the entire staff at Midland Care for their compassion and care.