Kenneth Dwight Caldwell, 63, a dedicated firefighter and Lion, a self-employed cross-country trucker, and beloved friend to many, passed away peacefully in his home in LaCrosse, Indiana, on June 6, 2024. His passing, which occurred hours after responding to a brush fire as a tanker operator, left an indelible void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. Born on March 20, 1961, in the military town of Fort Ord, California, Ken lived a life marked by kindness, selflessness, and a friendly spirit that endeared him to all who knew him. His life was filled with service to others.

Ken is survived by his mother, Mary Nell (Duncan) Caldwell; his brother and sister-in-law, William (Bill) and Elizabeth Caldwell; his sister and brother-in-law, Glenda Caldwell and Don Mathes; as well as his treasured nephew and nieces, Christopher and Kassidy Caldwell; Breanna and Bret Doorenbos and their two sons, Kasen and Barrett; and Kate and Thomas Duff and their son, Noah.

After attending Des Moines Area Community College, Ken honed his skills as a field mechanic for Western Geophysical and a service manager for Ruan before becoming a self-employed trucker in 2000.

Ken’s life was a testament to service and community involvement. As a firefighter for the LaCrosse Volunteer Fire Department, he exemplified courage and an unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of his community. Ken was sworn in on August 1, 2001, and became known for his exceptional maintenance skills, maintaining equipment at the highest standard. Ken inspected, repaired, and operated all fire engines. When Ken was in town, he responded to every call, whether day or night.

Ken’s generous spirit found a home in the LaCrosse Lions Club in 1995. He always helped by grilling pork chops, frying fish, and delivering food baskets. In October 2021, he received the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. Ken’s work behind the scenes really made a difference. He set up the grills the night before and cleaned out coolers after everyone else left. He fried fish and then emptied the old grease from the bus after fish fries. However, where he once again made a key impact is through all the maintenance work provided to the Lions Mobile Kitchen. Not only did he do regular maintenance, but he kept it clean and stocked with supplies. Ken truly embodies the spirit of a Lion, men and women who volunteer their time and their energy by serving. He did this for 29 years, serving his club and community.