Frederic William Hartford

Frederic William Hartford, age 83, of Tallahassee, Florida passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024. Fred was born in 1941 in Chatham, Ontario, Canada. He was raised in Erie Beach on the shores of Lake Erie, moving later to St. Catharines off of Lake Ontario. This cemented his great, lifelong love for water. In 1960, his family moved to Tampa, Florida, only expanding his love for nature, the outdoors and all of its beauty. While Fred enjoyed traveling, he cherished living in different cities in Florida for the rest of his life.

Fred attended the University of Tampa, the University of Florida, Iowa State University and Florida State University culminating in both a PhD in Science and an Advanced Master’s in Education. From age 5 to 81, Fred was either in school or teaching school. He believed in the tremendous value of learning. Even after retiring, he would dream that he was late for class.

Two words synonymous with Fred: Humor and Faith. Anyone that knew Fred commonly referred to his dad jokes as "Fredisms". He took great joy in coming up with things to make people laugh. He could often be caught giggling at himself and you knew it was going to be particularly corny. Fred also devoted his life to his church, the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, currently known as Community of Christ. His actions were always based on serving God by serving others around him. If he knew of someone in need, he was always there.

Fred is survived by his wife, Carolyn Sue; his daughter, Melanie and her husband, Nick; his brother, Edward and his wife, Mae; his sister, Dollie and her husband, Gary; 4 beloved nieces and nephews and their wonderful children. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Melville and Georgina Edith.

A Celebration of Life for Frederic will be held Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home, 700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32312. Please consider WEARING RED; it was Fred’s favorite color. A brief commemoration will immediately be followed by food, music and fellowship at the same location. Please stay for hugs and laughs. We’d greatly treasure hearing your favorite memories of Fred.

Warning: Fred’s favorite classic country will be playing. Earplugs not provided.