Vincent "Rip" Samuel Caldwell

Vincent “Rip” Caldwell, age 85, of Albia died Wednesday, July 20, 2011 at Monroe County Hospital in Albia. Rip was born on October 18, 1925 in Hiteman, Iowa to Bryan and Anna (Jamieson) Caldwell. He attended school in Hiteman and was a student in the last graduating class of Hiteman High School in 1943. Rip served his country in the United States Navy from 1943-1946 aboard the USS James C. Owens during WWII. He married Karen (Layton) Caldwell on February 20, 1965. Rip was employed by Morrell Corporation in Ottumwa for 29 years. He retired as a bridge foreman for Monroe County in 1987. Rip was an avid and loyal Chicago Cubs fan, rarely missing a televised game in the last 60+ years. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, painting, and various other arts and crafts. He enjoyed his grandchildren’s sporting events. He was very involved with the American Legion Howard Cessna Post #136, serving as post treasurer and club manager. Rip volunteered at numerous military funerals and also proudly assisted carrying the colors in the parades. Rip is survived by his wife, Karen Caldwell of Albia; 2 sons, Rodney (Connie) Elswick of Albia and Pat Gaffey of Knoxville; a daughter, Tonya (Steve) Bunch of Lovilia; 9 grandchildren, Saydee (Adam) Carrasco, Danyel (John) Willhour, Stephan Bunch, Tashina Elswick, Jimmy Joe Gaffey, Katie Bunch, Christa (Mike) Kingsbury, and Alyssa and Kayla Taylor; 6 great-grandchildren, Molly and Stephan Pettyjohn, Adam and Ava Carrasco, Briden Taylor, and Ryan Kingsbury. Rip is also survived by a brother, Larry (Deloris) Caldwell; and a niece, Vicki Myers. Rip was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Vernon; and a sister, Patricia. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday July 23, 2011 at Tharp-Winfield Funeral Home in Albia with Rev. Lynda Carlson officiating. Burial will follow services at Union Chapel Cemetery in rural Albia, with military rites provided by American Legion Howard Cessna Post #136 of Albia. Visitation will be held from 12 noon until 8:00 PM, Friday, July 22, 2011 at the Tharp-Winfield Funeral Home in Albia. Rip’s family will be present from 6 to 8:00 PM. An open memorial has been established. Condolences may be left at www.tharpfh.com

Vincent "Rip" Samuel Caldwell

October 18, 1925 - July 20, 2011