CALDWELL, Clifton O., Jr.
Capt. USN (Retired)
(Age 78)

Clif was born March 10, 1938 in Ephrata, WA to Clifton O. Caldwell, Sr., and Carol B. (Gamon) Caldwell and passed away October 23, 2016 in Spokane, WA.

His early childhood years were spent in Spokane where his father had his dental practice. When he was in high school, the family went to Okinawa, Japan after his father was drafted into the Army for the war in Korea. They returned to Spokane in time for Clif to graduate from North Central High School in 1956 with many of his childhood friends. He attended Eastern Washington College, University of Washington and University of Washington Dental School. After graduation, he entered the Navy and was stationed in Southern California. Upon leaving active service, he and his first wife, Carol (Shanks), returned to Spokane where he started his dental practice, serving dental patients for 37 years. He remained in the Navy Reserve for 30 years proudly serving his country.

He was a member of the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, Spokane District Dental Society, International College of Dentists, Delta Sigma Delta, Masonic Lodge, Elks, Spokane Camera Club, and Barbershop Harmonizers both in Coeur d'Alene, ID and Hemet, CA. Clif enjoyed skiing, golfing, boating, photography and singing.

He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Vonda Caldwell; sons Rob Caldwell (James Jaxxa), Scott (Tawnya) Caldwell and Mark (Tanya) Caldwell; and daughters Alla Dalton and Debra (Cal) McKee; grandchildren Jaime Neel, Aaron (Erin) Neel, Amelia Caldwell, Ben Caldwell, and Holly Caldwell, and great-granddaughters Peighton Neel and Averi Neel-Hayes. He is also survived by his sister Caryn Alley; brothers-in-law Deni Linhart and Tom Shanks; and sisters-in-law Kathy Welsh and Jeannie Shanks; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, November 4, 2016 at Heritage Funeral Home in Spokane, WA with private burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Newby Ginnings, 570 Clearwater Loop A, Post Falls, ID 83854. This not-for-profit local company provides assistance to veterans and their families, which was a service dear to Clif's heart.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Spokesman-Review on Oct. 30, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Clifton CALDWELL

10 Entries

Hewitt Merriett

April 18, 2022

I met Clif & Vonda in Hemet and shared many winters there with them.
He was probably the most knowledgeable man I have ever met.
It was a privilege to have know him and will never forget him.

Peighton Neel

October 28, 2021

The day he died was the worst day of my life. Everyone was crying and he was best grandpa. Rest In Peace. I love you.

November 4, 2016

To a very Special Uncle,
We will hold all the fun family occasions that we shared with you close to our hearts forever. You will be missed by all. Love, Kristie, Eldon, Nathan, Emily and Justin Walter.

Anne and warren Wellens

November 4, 2016

We will miss you! Go in peace and stay in our memories.

Bruce Butler

November 4, 2016

Dr. Caldwell was my Dentist for several years, until he retired. He also lived just up the street from our home at the time. My boys were his paperboys when they had paper routes. He was a fine Dentist and a true gentleman.

I had planned to attend the service, but an unanticipated work call regretfully has changed my plans. So sorry that I cannot be there.

Debbie Seipp-Carney

November 3, 2016

To Vonda and Families

Clif will be missed by so many people whose lives he touched. He was such a great friend, husband, father, and much much more. He touched my life in a way that I will always remember and was a great mentor and source of support when times got rough. My heart, prayers, and thoughts go out to you to help you face this tremendous loss.

Kathrine Olson

November 1, 2016

To the family,
I have known Cliff from the Spokane Dental Society for many years. As a member myself he was someone very welcoming to new dentists and very highly regarded. I also met you, Vonda, at one of the photographic weekends and that was very nice. My deepest sympathy to you and your family on this loss. God bless his memory.

November 1, 2016

The Washington State Veterans Cemetery extends our deepest sympathies to the family of Clifton O. Caldwell, Jr. for your loss. We honor him for the service and sacrifice he made for our nation, he is a true hero.

Tracie Tharp Hogeboom

October 30, 2016

My deepest sympathy to you Scott and your family. We go back a long way and seeing the passing of your Dad is like losing a family member. He was a wonderful man & great dentist who cared for his patients like family. May you find comfort in knowing so many of us remember him and smile with healthy teeth!! Blessings,

October 30, 2016

Thank you for your service to our country. Rest In peace.

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