Christopher Caldwell (1960-2025
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Actor and singer Christopher Van Caldwell passed away on Valentine’s Day at the age of 64. Arriving in Chicago in 1987, Christopher appeared in many productions at Drury Lane South, including SOUTH PACIFIC, SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARVES, THE NUTCRACKER, PINOCCHIO, HANSEL & GRETEL, and RUMPLESTILTSKIN. For many years, he toured schools throughout the Chicago area with Face to Face Productions. Favorite roles included the long-running FOREVER PLAID and a national tour of SESAME STREET LIVE! In addition to his stage work, Christopher appeared as the Chicago Bulls’ mascot Benny the Bull during the Jordan years for about 13 years. Prior to coming to Chicago, Christopher was an active member of Fond du Lac Community Theater, often on stage with his father George “Bud” Caldwell in many musical productions.
Christopher shared his beautiful tenor voice performing in a barber shop quartet and in a Christmas caroling quartet. He was a talented lyricist, creating customized tunes for clients, family and friends. Christopher was well known in the Chicago theatre softball league, where he played regularly for more than 30 years. Many will also know him from his work at David Turrentine & Associates, where he worked with Chicago actors’ tax returns for nearly 20 years. Christopher was born September 7, 1960 in Waukegan IL, the second son of George and Elizabeth Caldwell. He graduated with honors from L.P. Goodrich High School in 1978, as well as with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He is survived by his son Emmet Caldwell, daughter Lucy Caldwell, brother Kyle Caldwell and sister Sarah Caldwell Westphal (Duane), along with several nieces and nephews. Per David Turrentine — “Christopher was a generous and reliable performer, always giving his all to everyone involved with any project he worked on. There is no one I would have rather had by my side in my office all these years.” |