Henry Edmund Fredericks

Henry Edmund Fredericks passed away on March 12, 2024, at his home in Mountain Home, Arkansas. He was born on January 1, 1945, in Boston, Massachusetts, the son of Henry and Loretta Fredericks.

Henry graduated from Marianapolis Preparatory in Thompson, CT, and furthered his education with a degree in accounting and an MBA from the University of Connecticut. He pursued a career in insurance, banking and finance, and was the youngest Vice President at Aetna Life and Casualty. He finally traded in his suit for a carving knife and ran a successful commercial woodcarving business in Fitchburg, MA.


In 1986, Henry married the love of his life, Marian O’Leary, and together they enjoyed life as Corporate gypsies moving around the country and traveling the world.


Henry’s true passions lay in the simple joys of life. His love of fly fishing, spanning from the serene waters of Vietnam to the picturesque landscapes of Ireland, ultimately brought him to the banks of the White River in Arkansas, where he lured Marian in 2001. He loved nothing better than teaching others, especially children, to fly fish. His most important students were his two sons, Henry (JR) and Geoff, who are excellent fly fishermen.


Indoors, Henry enjoyed creating nature-inspired wood carvings, reading and gardening, and most importantly he loved to cook and host friends at his home. His annual St. Patrick’s Day parties and wildflower gardens were legendary along the White River.

Those who knew Henry will remember him as a generous soul; always extending a helping hand without seeking recognition. His selfless nature touched the lives of many around him and left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his professional accomplishments and hobbies, Henry proudly served in the Army during the Vietnam War. His dedication to his country reflected his unwavering commitment to duty and honor.

Henry is survived by his wife, Marian O'Leary of Kerry, Ireland; two sons, Geoffrey (Diane) Fredericks of Wexford, PA, and Henry (Marie) Fredericks of Portland, CT; three grandsons, Vincent, Michael, and Thomas; sisters, Loretta (Terrence) Danaher of Haddam Neck, CT, and Marie (Dennis) Derby of Jacksonville, FL; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 am on March 21, 2024, at Kirby and Family Funeral Home Chapel in Mountain Home, Arkansas. The service will be led by Life Celebrant, Heather Marsalis, and offer an opportunity for family and friends to come together to honor Henry's memory and legacy. Military Honors will be provided by the United States Army Honor Guard. For those who are unable to attend, a link will be provided to watch the live-stream. Please check back here in the coming days.

Henry will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kind heart, quiet generosity, and unwavering love for his family.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Friends of the Norfork National Fish Hatchery, specifically for the Fly Fishing Academy, or the Baxter County Library.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.