Michael "Tom" Caldwell

     Michael "Tom" Caldwell, a cherished jokester and master of laughter, took his final bow on April 27, 2025, in his beloved hometown of Cheyenne, Wyoming, at the age of 59. Born on July 21, 1965, Tom had an unforgettable flair for life, from his passion for fishing to his natural knack for charming everyone he met. He was a true son of Cheyenne; after all, where else could you find someone who spent summers volunteering at the famed Cheyenne Frontier Days.

     Those who knew Tom would tell you he could lighten any mood with a quick quip or a classic Elvis impersonation that would leave you both laughing and shaking your head. Yes, there were moments when you had to remind yourself that he wasn't really the King himself — but to Tom, every day was a stage, and he was always ready to perform! And let’s not forget his famously flirtatious nature; he could charm the socks off anyone while offering them the best punchlines in town!

     His adventurous spirit was matched only by his heart of gold. Tom had a special love for animals and a community spirit that shone through in everything he did. Fishing trips were often accompanied by tales that seamlessly blended the grandeur of the catch with his unique brand of humor.

     Despite the struggles he faced, Tom never lost his signature smile or his ability to uplift those around him. He waged a valiant fight for life with the same vigor he showed when he was entertaining friends. His laughter may have echoed a little less often, but the memories of his quick wit and larger-than-life presence will surely continue to brighten lives in Cheyenne and beyond.

     Tom is survived by his dear brother, Duke Hape, and sister-in-law, Angela Hape, as well as his loving sister, Kellie Caldwell-Garcia. He joins his cherished parents in the great beyond: Mother Maureen Hape, Father Larry Caldwell, and Stepfather Ron Hape are ready to welcome him back with open arms and plenty of laughs.

     So, here’s to Tom – a true original, a charm-slinger extraordinaire, and a keeper of joy. May his memory continue to amuse us, inspire belly laughs, and serve as a reminder that sometimes, life is best lived with a wink, a joke, and a love for all forms of adventure.