Rena Caldwell's Obituary
Rena Caldwell, 91, of Fayetteville died February 5, 2012 at Washington Regional Hospice Center. She was born November, 19, 1920 in Sheldon, Iowa to Burt and Mary Van Roekel.
She was preceded in death by husband Cedric Frank Caldwell and son Thomas Frank Caldwell, both of Jonesboro, AR.
She is survived by one daughter, Jan Kennedy and husband Larry, of Fayetteville, granddaughter April Kennedy of Fayetteville, and grandsons, Chris Caldwell, of Jonesboro, AR, and Vincent Caldwell of Ft. Worth, TX., and one great-granddaughter, Christin Caldwell of Ft. Worth, TX., three sisters, Nancy Sanders and Jerry Brower, of Sheldon, Iowa, and Martha Oester, of Phoenix, AZ., and one brother, Abe Van Roekel, of Sheldon, Iowa.
Throughout her life she was an avid gardener and fisher. She prized education and the pursuit of knowledge, loving educational programs and crossword puzzles. Rena spoke her mind on most matters, yet remained intellectually curious on a wide array of topics. She also loved dancing and took great pride in her physical condition and appearance, which was evident by her good looks until the end. Rena remained sharp in her mind and strong in her body until the final days. Those who knew her affectionately referred to her as “tough as boot leather.”
The family would like to thank Highlands Oncology, Washington Regional Transfusion Center, Washington Regional Hospital and Washington Regional Hospice Center for their years of loving dedicated service.
A private family graveside service will be held at a later date in Jonesboro, AR.
The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers honor contributions be sent to Meals on Wheels of Farmington, AR. 479-267-5709.
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