John E. Kidwell passed away on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center in Coffeyville, Kansas.
John was born in Falmouth, Kentucky on a snowy day in January 1941. He grew up in Erlanger, Kentucky. John graduated high school and furthered his education at the University of Cincinnati where he earned his bachelor's degree.
During his many years in Coffeyville, he was active in both business and community functions. He and his wife, Barbara, were the owners and operators of The Home Lumber and Supply Co. for a number of years. He and Barbara then opened Kidwell Insurance Associates, the only senior services agency in Montgomery County.
John's community activities included being a member of the Montgomery County Economic Development Authority, an organization that brought both American Insulated Wire and Cessna to Montgomery County. It later assisted in Amazon coming to Coffeyville. John was also on the committee that designed and located the Coffeyville Public Safety Building for both the fire department and the police department. He was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Coffeyville.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Barbara Kidwell of the home; his son, Jack Kidwell and wife, Donna and their three children, Harry, Epifany and George; his daughter, Stacy Kidwell and her daughter, Maggie, along with numerous extended relatives and friends. John was preceded in death by his parents, Everette and Annette Kidwell.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 5th from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Coffeyville. Pastor Diane Massey will officiate. Interment will follow at the Fredonia City Cemetery in Fredonia, Kansas.
The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society; these may be left with the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home 306 N. Cline Rd. Coffeyville, KS 67337.
To leave a message for the family online, visit www.dwbfh.com
