Fred was born in Grangeville, the second of three children born to Ted and Leona Carpenter, on Dec. 21, 1948. He passed away at his home from cancer Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, with his loving family surrounding him.
He grew up in Grangeville and graduated from Grangeville High School. He went to Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa, earning a business degree and playing basketball through his college years.
Early on, Fred developed a love of sprint boat racing and auto racing. He always had a car in the garage that he was restoring.
In 1987, Fred married his forever love, Dianna Hubbard, having his family completed with the birth of his two precious daughters, Kale and Brittlyn.
After working with Rusty for 25 years for Bentz Fence, in 1998 Fred purchased the company and renamed it Carpenter Fence Corp. For more than 20 years he and his wife successfully ran the business, making many lifelong friends along the way.
Fred earned a lifetime membership with the Iron Warriors, an elite public safety club made up of policemen and firefighters. He was so very proud of this accomplishment and traveled extensively to be with club members around the country.
Fred is survived by his loving wife, Dianna; daughters Brittlyn Carpenter, Kale Carpenter, Jean Thompson and adopted son Todd Carpenter, all from Lewiston; his older sister, Rosalyn Bentz, of Lewiston; and younger brother Jeff Carpenter of Florida. He also leaves two precious grandchildren, whom he adored.
Fred worked hard and played hard to the very end. He had many friends he developed over the years through his love of cars, sprint boats, motorcycles and racing.
The family would like to thank the St. Joseph hospice team for their loving care to Fred and his family during a very difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to your favorite cancer research center.
A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Feb. 16 in the downstairs event room at the Moose Lodge at 814 Sixth St., Clarkston. Please bring a favorite story to share.
