West Tuality Habitat mourns the loss of Richard Kidd

Staff and volunteers at West Tuality Habitat, as well as many of our program participants, are mourning the loss Richard Kidd, who passed away last weekend.

Executive Director Virginia Ohler noted, "Richard was a remarkable person. In addition to being a veteran, a local businessman, a long-time mayor of Forest Grove, and the founder of the Public Arts Commission, active in his church and community, Richard also spent more than 15 years volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. Richard served as Construction Manager for more than 5 years, leading construction for the build at Coopers Corner on 19th and Oak in Forest Grove. Richard also served as Board Chair in 2006, founded the Repair Program at West Tuality, and managed various iterations of ReStore remodels and improvements over the years. Richard led the Board Recruiting committee for many years, recruiting many great Habitat volunteers and even staff. Richard also served with Habitat for Humanity of Oregon and Habitat International as an advocate in Washington D.C. and Salem, Oregon, supporting affordable housing initiatives. Richard was always happy when building, coaching and training volunteers, advocating for affordable housing, and celebrating new families as they took possession of their Habitat homes. He was the first recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at West Tuality. Even when his health faltered, he found ways to contribute. He will be remembered as a tireless 'energizer bunny' with his unflagging good humor and energy, for his love of a good glass of wine, for his fellowship, and love for all. He will be greatly missed."