ORANGE- Francis Frederick Kidder, lovingly known as Fred, 73, of George Street passed away on July 20, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on September 19, 1952, in Morrisville, Fred was the cherished son of Lucius & Pearl (Guyette) Kidder, both of whom predeceased him, along with his beloved wife, Rose Kidder (Dupont), whom he was lovingly married to for 45+ years.

A man of many talents and endeavors, Fred began his working life early, driving a taxi, cooking in restaurants and working at Go Go gas. His career journey later led him to drive a bus for RSD leasing for many years. With a passionate entrepreneurial spirit, Fred earned his Auctioneer's License and founded his own business, Kidder’s Consignment Sales. Even in retirement, his industrious nature shone through as he established Kidder’s Smoke House, where he worked alongside his son up until his passing.

Fred was a dedicated community member, actively participating in The Canadian Club, the American Legion, and he was a respected Mason at the Masonic Lodge in Barre. He served as a Justice of the Peace and was on the Republican Committee in the Town of Orange. These roles were a testament to his commitment to service and his community.

His hobbies reflected his appreciation for the past; Fred was an avid collector of old clocks and antiques. He took great joy in attending auctions and yard sales. Known for his kind heart and generosity, Fred would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. His genuine warmth and love for conversation were evident to all who shared a cup of coffee and hours of heartfelt conversation with him.

Survivors include his sons John Kidder and his wife, Samantha and Brent Kidder and his wife, Chelsea and his beloved grandchildren Tucker and Lydia Kidder as well as his siblings Tom Kidder, Elizabeth “Liz” Achilles, and Harriet Kidder.

In addition to his loving wife and parents, he was also predeceased by his siblings Charles “Aaron” Kidder, Harvey Kidder, Perry “Pete” Kidder, George Kidder, Charlotte Garcia, Caroline Bartlett, Dorris Morris, and Louise Lane.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice in Barre, Vermont.

A graveside service to honor his life will be held on August 2, 2026, at 1:00pm at the Brook Haven Cemetery, Located on Route 302 in Orange, VT, with a celebration of life to follow at The Canadian Club in Barre. There are no calling hours.