James Randolph (Randy) Kidd, DVM, PhD left this life on January 15, 2024.
Randy never met a stranger, and always shared his humor for life. He was a shepherd for all of nature, caring for and protecting the great outdoors and its animals. He believed in taking a walk
every morning to greet the sun. He encouraged his creative mind by writing and teaching. Most importantly, The Great One, (a nickname he earned from great nieces and nephews) was a
wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle, and mentor to many. His greatest joy was supporting their successes.
Born in 1942, to Col. James and Helen Fullerton Kidd at Randolph Field, Texas, Randy would say, “they named Randolph Field after me.” He lived life seeking challenges and sharing this
love of life in the many places he called home.
A natural leader and encourager, he served as president or leader of most of the organizations he chose to support including: the Lancaster High School Class of 1960, veterinary student
groups, community service clubs, bird and wildlife conservation groups, and writers’ associations.
Randy excelled as a student and football player at Iowa State University. His career included many pursuits in a variety of fields: Veterinarian; Veterinary Pathologist; Chiropractor of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Acupuncturist, and Homeopathist; Commercial Flight Instructor; and Pilot for United Air Lines. He was also journalist and published author for publications including Runners’ World, Mother Earth News, Kansas Magazine, journals of Veterinary medicine, and multiple “how to” articles. His memoir, Nature Walking with Cancer, will be released soon.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sue Stratton Kidd; daughters, Kris (Rob) Shaw, Karen (Jeff) Frey, and Kimberly (Kevin) Muff. Grandchildren Zach Shaw, Bret (Tara) Shaw and Grant
(Morgan) Shaw; Madelyn (Eric) Parsons and Connor Frey; Alexandra (Jake) Doller, Skyler (Oistin) McCaughan, and Taylor Muff. Great grandchildren Rowen Shaw; Jordy, Mason, Drew and Reese Doller; Sophia Shaw; and one great grandchild on the way. Randy is also survived by his favorite sisters Sandra Blackburn and Jenny Mann, great niece Traci (Eric) Mahler and many great nieces and nephews.
Randy truly lived his motto: Reuniting the Human Spirit with the Soul of Nature.
A gathering will be held for Randy Kidd on June 7, 2024, at Branchwood Village Cooperative, 651 Branchwood Dr, Lawrence, from 4p-5p. The Celebration of Life will follow at the same location from 5p-6p.
For donations in Randy’s name, please give your time, talent, or contribution to the charity of your choice.
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Sadness that such a bright light has left this world. We will carry on the work of protecting the Animals and the ecosystems. Thinking of you, Sue in this difficult time.
Dear Sue and family,
Over the last 40+ years I have occasionally checked on what Randy was doing and just learned that this incredibly unique and special person has passed away.
Most sincerely, I offer my condolences as I now realize I should have touched base more often. Know that my friendship to you and yours is forever.
All I know of the man is his daughter Karen who is a bright shining light at our work. I have worked with Karen for many years. Kind, caring, conscientious, creative, and gets things done. I can only imagine she is a reflection of her parents. I hope there is some comfort in that and I am deeply sorry for the loss to the family.
My friend, Sue,
I send you my condolences. I know you and Randy shared many happy years together. I know you will dearly miss him. Know there are many prayers coming your way. All my love. Charyll
Randy was one of my “quiet hero’s” in high school and I regret not keeping in contact with him afterward. May his soul Rest In Peace and my deepest sympathies to his family.
Sue,
Sending you our heart felt sympathy and prayers for comfort.
What a truly incredible life he lived! So happy you shared it. Although I am sorry for your loss, I am happy that he is in a wonderful place, watching and waiting for you all.
Sue, my heartfelt sympathy to you and your family upon Randy’s passing. I remember with happiness the week we spent with you both in 2015. Cherish beautiful memories.
Although only two years separated us, he was my baby nephew. Our early years we’d spent as best playmates. Later, when he outgrew his clothes, I got many a nice thread. We shared many wonderful memories. I was always in awe of his intelligence and proud of his many accomplishments. He was blessed with an All-American family. May he rest in peace. Hope to see you soon on the playing field.
All blessing upon you, Sue…and rest in peace, dear Randy.
Randy was a very important friend to me from the first grade through high school, and my Ann and I were so pleased we were able to visit you both a few years ago. We parted hopeful that you would have a few more joyful years together. I know you and your wonderful family enjoyed the time that remained. Our deepest sympathies.
Sue I am saddened to hear of Randy’s death. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and that I care!
Sue. We are very sorry to hear of Randy’s passing Please know we are thinking of you and your family at this time.
What a pair, Sue and Randy! Strong believers, truest of friends, leaders, role models. You and the kids and grands will carry his legacy far into the future, and we are all the better for his example. Hugs!
Sue and Kris, my deepest sympathies to you and your beautiful families. So many great memories of Randy! May your great memories bring you comfort in the days to come. Much love to all of you.
Sue I was so sorry to see this. You both had so many adventures. Love to you and your family.