A livestream of the service may be accessed by going to https://www.cornerstoneminot.com/watch

To view the flowers & plants from Don's service, click here: Don Caldwell Flower Pictures

Don Keith Caldwell , 85, lifelong Minot resident died on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 in a Minot nursing home.

Don was born on June 16, 1938 in Minot, ND to John and Thelma. He grew up in a perfect time for boys to be boys. With his older brother Dean as a companion, they enjoyed living on a farm in Deering for a few years before moving back to Minot in time to start school. They made friends in these early years that remained so throughout both their lives. A younger sister and brother, Sharon and Dale, came along to add to the fun and creative home. Thelma told us that my dad had an interest in music at 5 years old singing "Charlie is my Darling" adding that he was quite a "ham". She also said one day he ran in from the chicken coop and told her that the hens were clucking "Blues in the Night". His love of music was ever present throughout his life. He played guitar and sang, sounding very much like Sinatra who he pronounced the best crooner of the crooners.

He met Carol Sue Smith in a one-year hiatus from Model School when she sat near him in homeroom at Minot High. It took prodding from a mutual friend for him to summon the courage to ask her on a date. He said many times that she was just such a tremendous girl, and she was very popular, that he didn't think he'd have a chance. They hit it off and were married in 1958. Carol Lynn came along first then Bradford then Blake. Suzanne was last 8 years later in May of 1969 during the great flood.

He taught his children to play and sing and encouraged us to do so any chance he got. We were singing and playing at holidays and parties. He was proud of us and it showed. He gave guitar lessons to young students for many years and was very patient and calm as an instructor.

In 1965 after graduating from Minot State College he went to work for Minot Federal as a loan officer. He remained there until its closing in the early 90's. He dressed very well, and we were always proud of our handsome dad.

He decided to resume playing trombone, after a hiatus of many years, and joined the Elks Band, City Band and Kiwanis Band.

In the early 90's he and some friends offered to create a fundraiser for the symphony board. "The Big Broadcasts of 1937 and 1938" were a big success. Don missed his calling when those involved saw his passion and understanding of Big Band music and theatrics as he got the sheet music, musicians and local "hams" together to perform a period radio show complete with musical acts, skits, news and commercial interruptions. Each show, before a live audience, was sold out to very enthusiastic crowds in the former Elks Dance Hall.

Don continued to enjoy music singing in the Chamber Chorale and Cornerstone Presbyterian Church Choir for many years. He also enjoyed a number of small groups he sang with throughout his life. He had passions for old cars and houses and had a good sense for renovating homes. Those whom he worked and played with describe him as fun-loving and kind with a sense of humor and quick wit. I knew him as dad.

He is survived by his four children, Carol Lynn, Brad, Blake and Suzanne; Grandchildren, Jessie, Elizabeth, Nick, Alex and Sebastian; Great Grandchildren, Silas and Eliana and Sister, Sharon; sister-in-law, Leatrice and several nieces, nephews and cousins..  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and brothers.

Celebration of the Life of Don Caldwell: Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. in Cornerstone Presbyterian Church – Minot.  A livestream of the service may be accessed by going to https://www.cornerstoneminot.com/watch
Interment will be in Rosehill Memorial Park – Minot.
Visitation: Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home – Minot.