Thomas A. "Tom" Caldemeyer

ODESSA Thomas "Tom" A. Caldemeyer, 57, of Odessa, went to be with the Lord on Monday, October 15, 2012. Tom was born on December 17, 1954 in Evansville, Indiana to Carl Edward and Norma Jean Caldemeyer.
Tom retired from the Odessa Police Department on December 31, 2008, where he served since April, 18, 1983. While with OPD, he served as a patrol officer, Corporal, motor officer, patrol Sergeant, Community Relations Sergeant, tactical flight officer, detective Sergeant and Commander of the Career Criminal Task Force. He also served with the Sonora Police Department in Sonora, Texas from 1980 to 1981. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from May 1975 to November 1978.
He earned an Associate's degree in Criminal Justice from Odessa College in December of 1999. He graduated from F.J. Reitz High School in Evansville, Indiana in 1973.
Tom was full of life and loved to hunt. He was very fond of the time that he spent with his son, John Thomas on the many outings they had. He adored his wife, Debbie and the time they spent with their animals. He enjoyed working in his barn and tending his horse "Bear."
Tom had a special place in his heart for children in our community. He participated in the Police Athletic League as the Executive Director. He was also active in raising funds for Texas Special Olympics.
Tom spent his life putting others before himself which he demonstrated through his passion as a peace officer. He was a true friend, always willing to help out those in need. Tom married Debbie on August 13, 1994 and enjoyed over 18 years of marriage. He was preceded in death by both of his parents.
Survivors include his wife, Debbie; son, John Thomas; sisters, Wanda Hert, Dona Head, Sarah Crane, and Kula Caldemeyer; and brothers, Daryl, Carl Jr. and Randey Caldemeyer.
Visitation will be on Thursday, October 18, 2012, from 6-8 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home, 6801 E. Business 20, Odessa.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 19, 2012 at First Baptist Church of Odessa, 709 N. Lee. Following the church service, he will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Pallbearers will be Larry Bartlett, Robert Hammerman, Justin Scott, James Stewart, Jimmy Wingrove and Al Knapp.
The family extends the deepest appreciation to all who cared so much for Tom over the past five years.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Sunset Funeral Home. To sign the guest book, go to our website at www.sunsetodessa.com