Casey Lee Caldwell

1955 - 2025

Casey Lee Caldwell, born June 1st, 1955, in Anaconda, Montana, passed away on February 25th, 2025, at the age of 69. Raised in Elliston, Montana, by his mother, Florence Drnjevick and stepfather Frank Drnjevick. Casey developed a close bond with his Uncle Robert Nelson early on, a friendship that would last throughout his life. In his younger years, he found adventure riding broncs on the rodeo circuit and traveling the country as a truck driver.

Casey was a man who knew exactly how to push your buttons, often for his own amusement, and had an uncanny ability to make himself laugh at just the right moment. Casey's witty sense of humor and sarcasm couldn't hide his gentle spirit and big heart. He would go to any lengths to help friend and found joy in taking care of the communities around him. I suspect this is how he befriended every dog that crossed his path, they could sense the goodness in his heart; that or maybe they could smell the bacon in his pocket.

In 2001, Casey met the love of his life, Rhetta (Galetti) Caldwell. It was clear they shared a deep connection-one built on laughter, inside jokes, and a love for the outdoors. Whether camping, ice fishing, or cruising through the mountain towns to soak up Montana's rugged beauty, they were in their element. Rhetta introduced Casey to Butte's colorful history-its mining roots and the kind of debauchery only Butte can offer-and they both shared a love of the people and history there. In 2005, they were married at the World Museum of Mining in Butte.

Tragically, Rhetta was taken too soon, leaving Casey with two adult kids who adored him. After her passing, Casey was understandably lost. He continued to serve as a strong, positive support for the children she left behind, but a piece of him was clearly missing. He found peace in riding and customizing his 105th Harley Roadster. He spent much of his time riding with Uncle Bob, including memorable trips through federal parks of Montana and out to the Sturgis Rally in South Dakota.

He retired from the Stillwater Mine, where he worked as a core sample driller. Despite the toll this work took on him, he usually spoke of his time in the mines with a soft sentiment. He took pride in his work-not just in drilling core samples, but in his true passion: relentlessly pranking the poor souls who shared a rig with him.

In 2014, Casey hit the jackpot for the second time-he met Laurie (Nelson) Caldwell. Together, they found joy in each other's company, filling their days with love, laughter, mischief, and new memories that brightened his life. Laurie brought with her six children, 20 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. Casey's life with Laurie and her children, particularly this new role as grandpa, brought him immense joy.

Casey is preceded in death by his mother, Florence; stepfather, Frank; wife, Rhetta; aunt, Patty Nelson; and son Jonathon Peet. He leaves behind his wife, Laurie Caldwell; uncle, Bob Nelson; children: Angie (Jessica) Galetti, Geno Galetti, Jennifer Peet, Angela Klimpel, Stevie (Clarissa), Randi (Freddie) Docken, and Zach (Kendra) Nelson as well as numerous other family and friends who will miss his mischievous antics. While he may no longer be with us, his humor, pranks, and the laughter he sparked will never be forgotten.