Donald H. "Don" Caldwell

Donald “Don” H. Caldwell Jr., of Akron, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born in Akron, Ohio, on May 11, 1948, to the late Donald Sr. and Marvel Caldwell. He graduated from Firestone High School in 1968, where he met the love of his life, Joan - a relationship that would span more than five decades of marriage, partnership, and devotion.

Following high school, Don began his career with Ohio Bell, remaining with the company through its transitions to Ameritech and later AT&T, before retiring after 37 years of dedicated service.

Don had a deep passion for communication and service. He was an amateur radio enthusiast (call sign AC8N) and a founding member of the Silvercreek Amateur Radio Club, as well as a member of the Pioneer and Cuyahoga Falls Radio Clubs. His commitment to helping others extended to his work with Civil Air Patrol, where he served as Assistant Communications Director for the Ohio Wing. In this role, he traveled throughout the state ensuring reliable communications during training exercises and emergency preparedness operations for cadets and senior members.

Don and Joan were also deeply involved in their children’s activities, which led to many years of service with Scouting America. Don especially enjoyed serving as a Camp Master and being part of the Tuesday Crew at Camp Manatoc and Camp Butler in Peninsula. He also loved participating in the annual camp hayride, serving as the tractor coordinator for the event. One of his favorite roles was stepping in as Santa for the annual Breakfast with Santa at Camp Manatoc, complete with a carefully curled beard for the occasion.

While some may have known Don for his gruff exterior, those closest to him understood that beneath it was a heart of gold and a deep well of kindness, loyalty, and love.

Don was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Edith (“the Outlaw”), and his beloved favorite pets, Max and Vixen.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Joan Caldwell; his daughter, Cindy (Bruce) Holzheimer; his son, Scott Caldwell; his sister, Sharon (Marcel) Goodwin; his sister-in-law, Patti (Norman) Tanner; and many cherished extended family members and friends.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 10th at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., when the memorial service will begin. To leave a special message for Don's family, please visit the guest book below.