Randolph, Vermont

Frederick Earl Merriam Jr. passed away unexpectedly at this home Thursday, July 8 ^th , 2021.

Fred was born to Frederick Earl Merriam and Sheila (Aubin) Merriam on September 22, 1970 in Rutland, Vermont. He grew up in Bridgewater, VT attending Bridgewater Elementary and Woodstock Union High School. After high school he went on to Lyndon State College in Vermont and then Johnson and Wales in Rhode Island.

Fred was a skilled craftsman and entrepreneur. He developed and ran ACME Carriage Works, Inc. in Bridgewater, VT. In these years he also established Vermont Bell Company. His great love for horses, especially Percherons, was reflected in his craftsmanship. His talent was showcased at numerous museums, including the Smithsonian and he was featured on Martha Stewart Living Show, sharing his bell making craft and sleigh restoration. The business and family eventually moved to Braintree, VT where life just got sweeter. Together with his wife and children a new adventure began, and what started as a hobby with five bee hives, grew into West Meadow Apiary, a successful honeybee business that progressed to 2,000 hives over 12 years. He traveled coast to coast with the bees pollinating crops, all the while sharing experiences and adventures across the country with his family. Fred had incredible vision and positivity, he believed in, and encouraged others that they could do anything if they put their mind to it. He found great joy in mentoring others and was always willing to lend a hand.

Fred leaves behind his wife and best friend Jackie (Larocque) and nine children: Aidan (20), Noah (18), Levi (17), Holly (15), Clover (12), Daisy (10), Jonah (8), Elijah (6), and Moses (4); his father Fred of Newfane, VT, mother Sheila of Rochester, NY, and brother Seth of Boston, MA along with numerous relatives and friends.

Fred was a beautiful soul, lived life to the fullest, enjoying every moment, pouring all of his love and faith in God into his whole family and all who he knew.

A graveside service will be held Friday, July 16 ^th , 2021 at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Bridgewater, VT at 1:00pm, followed by a gathering at the Bridgewater Grange.

Arrangements are by Cabot Funeral Home in Woodstock, VT. An online guestbook can be found at cabotfh.com