Ricky Caldwell

Ricky Caldwell, affectionately known as "Rick," was born on February 5, 1963, in Smith Center, Kansas. He passed away peacefully on December 28, 2024, surrounded by family and friends in the Critical Care Unit at McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center in Springfield, Oregon, a place that had become his second home over the past seven years.

Rick dedicated his career to pharmacy, spending his days in the CCU where he earned the respect and affection of his colleagues through his unwavering support and infectious sense of humor. He was known for going above and beyond his job description to assist the medical professionals, proving himself an integral part of the team. In 2022, and again in 2024, he was nominated for the CCU Employee of the Year, a testament to the high regard in which he was held, even if he did not officially belong to that department. His candy stash in the CCU became a popular gathering spot, where he built lasting relationships with his coworkers, who became his Oregon family.

Outside of work, Rick's endearing personality shone through in every aspect of his life. He found joy in traveling to sporting events, especially those linked to Kansas State University. He was also an avid fan of the Kansas City Royals, the Washington Redskins, and NASCAR. Each year, he looked forward to the treasured tradition of attending the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, a trip he cherished along with his sons, Riordan and the late Quinn.

Rick's spirit was one of light and humor; he had a laugh that was truly one-of-a-kind, capable of bringing warmth to any situation. He cherished spending quality time with family and friends, whether enjoying dinner and drinks, watching sporting events, attending the races, or sharing moments at church services with his loved ones.

Rick is survived by his son, Riordan Caldwell; brother, Randy Caldwell; sister-in-law, Terry Caldwell; sister, Becky Grabast; brother-in-law, Breck Grabast; nieces, Nan Caldwell, Bethany Grabast, and Brittany (Donald) Cinco; and grandnieces, Terran and Raya Caldwell.

He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Caldwell; mother, Nina Irene "Tiny" Caldwell; and son, Quinn Caldwell.

Rick's legacy of compassion, humor, and dedication will continue to live on through the lives he touched and the memories he created with those who were fortunate enough to know him. His light will forever remain in the hearts of those he loved.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 1, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time (8:00 a.m. Pacific Time) at Grace Brethren Church in Portis, KS. The service will also be live streamed on Facebook. Link to the livestream: https://fb.me/1RJpyC6ESPDzFEq.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ricky Caldwell Memorial Fund, which will be designated to McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center or Grace Brethren Church. Donations can be sent in care of Schoen Funeral Home & Monuments, 1001 Morgan Ave., Downs, KS 67437.