Thomas Authur Fredenhagen

Thomas A. Fredenhagen, DVM, affectionately known as “Dr. Fred,” passed away while under the care of Community Hospice on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at the age of 76, with his loving wife, Karen, by his side.

Born in St. Augustine, Florida, on October 9, 1949, Tom grew up in Palatka, Florida. He began his higher education at St. John’s River Junior College and the University of Florida, before earning his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 1976. Following an internship in Tallahassee, he relocated to Jacksonville, where he founded and ran the Argyle Animal Clinic for 10 years.

In 1999, Tom & Karen - his devoted wife and business partner- purchased Kingsley Animal Hospital in Orange Park, Florida, continuing their lifelong passion for animal welfare. Together, they devoted their lives to veterinary medicine, compassionate pet care, and supporting local no-kill shelters and animal charities. Alongside their dedicated staff, they faithfully served the community until Dr. Fred’s well deserved retirement in November 2024.

Over a distinguished 45 year veterinary career, Tom was an active member of the American & Florida Veterinary Medical Associations. Deeply committed to animal welfare, he also served on the boards of the Safe Animal Shelter and Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary.

Outside of his time at their animal hospital, Tom loved camping, boating and hunting. He enjoyed family life on their small farm in Mandarin, surrounded by their many animals. A true firearms and hunting enthusiast, Tom frequently retreated to his hunting camp in Palatka to enjoy nature & take time to rest and recuperate.

Tom was preceded in death by his loving parents, Rebecca and Eugene Fredenhagen.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen, of 27 years; his son, Ross Fredenhagen (Mandy), his grandson, Landon; his daughter, Jill Fredenhagen(Matt); his stepdaughter, Jessica White (AJ), his grandson, Greyson; his sister, Debra (Charles-deceased); his nieces, Racheal, Olivia, Lexie and Claire; and his nephews, Charles (Ellie), Trey and Hagen.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, located at 11801 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, Florida, on July 9th, 2026 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Tom’s memory to either a safe animal shelter, H.O.R.S.E. Therapies, Inc., Jacksonville Fl, or charity of choice.