Joan Caldwell's Obituary
Joan Caldwell, age 90, passed away on May 17, 2026. She was born on July 17, 1935, to the late Martha and Arthur McCrudden, whose love and guidance shaped the foundation of her long and meaningful life.
Joan was the devoted wife of the late William R. Caldwell, with whom she shared many years of partnership, family, and enduring affection. Together they raised seven children, who remained the center of her world: Eric Caldwell (deceased), Robin Caldwell (infant, deceased), Amy (Larry) DeAngelis, Aaron Caldwell (deceased), Jennifer (Bruce) Zemba, Lori (Michael) Kapustik, Clay Caldwell, and Christian (Anita) Caldwell (deceased). She was a proud and loving grandmother of 21 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild on the way, each of whom brought her immense joy. Joan also leaves her sister, Patricia (Michael) Dwyer, and was preceded in death by her brother, Terry (Delores) McCrudden, and her sister, Eileen (Orlando) Ricci. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the traditions she cherished, and the kindness she extended to all who knew her.
Joan enjoyed a long and successful career in banking with National City Bank, where her dedication and professionalism earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike. At 65, she chose to retire so she could devote herself fully to caring for her husband during his final years.
After building a home in North Ridgeville, Joan continued to share her talents with others, working part time to help new neighbors select the finishing touches for their homes. She took great pleasure in the simple beauty around her, often walking the nearby parks and her neighborhood, greeting familiar faces along the way. A devoted Cleveland baseball fan, she rarely missed a game on TV and cheered on her team with unwavering enthusiasm.
Joan found joy in many places: traveling with family, tending to her garden, reading, and watching the birds that visited her yard. These moments—small, but full of life—reflected the gentle spirit she carried with her. Her presence enriched the lives of those who knew her, and her memory will continue to do so.
A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 6245 Columbia Road, North Olmsted, OH 44070, where the memorial service will follow at 12:00 PM. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joan’s honor to the Lorain Public Library, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
What’s your fondest memory of Joan?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joan?
Share a story where Joan's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joan you’ll never forget.
How did Joan make you smile?
