Terry Kidder, 75, of Pentwater, passed away Thursday, October 16, 2025. He was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, on Tuesday, July 25, 1950, to end up being the oldest of four kids born to Jack and Harriette Kidder.
From a young age, Terry was an outdoorsman and a football player; two passions that would hold the entirety of his life. The summer after graduating high school, while still 17 years old, his career began with the Ironworkers Local 340 as an apprentice. Then, in the fall, after their graduation on October 11, 1968, he would marry his wife of 57 years, Sarah Jane, beginning his family of three children: Trent, Travis and Jamie.
In 1987, Terry began his life passion of raising and breeding Percheron draft horses. Together, he and Sarah established Walnut Ridge Farm, producing high-pedigree Percheron bloodlines and elaborate decorative horse harnesses. Oceana County Fair was the place he shared his passion with the community, bringing the towering Percherons to show and meet everyone. He would eventually become the superintendent of the Oceana County Draft Horse barn.
Terry is survived by: his wife, Jane; children, Trent and Jamie; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Terry was preceded in death by: his parents; son, Travis; and grandson, Bryen.
He will be remembered as an exceptionally great man, from a generation of great men.
In accordance with Terry’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no services will be held at this time.
In lieu of flowers, Jane has asked for any memorial contributions to be made to the Crystal Valley Care Fund, P.O. Box 451, Hart, MI 49420, as Terry felt they contribute in a necessary way to the community.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
www.beaconfh.com.
