In Memoriam – John Fredenberger

John Fredenberger passed away on October 18, 2025, at Pompidou Hospital in Paris. John had been a steadfast presence at AARO since the 1970s, dedicating his life and energy to our cause.

John was an American veteran who actively served his country and community throughout his entire life.

He graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Doctorate in Law (JD) in the 1960's, and then joined the U.S. Army. While in the military, John served in Vietnam and then in France at the U.S. Embassy with the Defense Attaché as their Chief Legal Officer in the 1970's.

John attended the Defense Language Institute in California, and he graduated from the Université de Paris II with a Doctorat de l'Université (droit international).

He continued to serve his country and community in France for decades as a professional and a volunteer. John was very active with many organizations besides AARO, including the American Legion, VFW, Production Chez Nous and the American Club (just to name a few).

As a professional attorney, John helped Americans navigate the complex system of laws that encumber Americans who live in foreign countries including tax preparation, retirement and estate planning.

His commitment was evident in many roles he held. With AARO, he served on the Board of Directors and as Chair of the Tax Committee, conducting our tax seminars for many years.

As Chair of the Voting Committee, John organized outreach and voter registration drives, determined to increase the vote of overseas Americans and to help ensure they had the information they needed to vote from overseas. He advocated many times at Overseas Americans Week in Washington, D.C., fighting for the rights of overseas Americans. He was also a guiding force on the Advisory Council.

AARO is grateful for John’s contributions and passion. He freely gave decades of his time and his remarkable energy, inspiring us with his vibrant personality and great wit. John’s absence leaves a great void at AARO. We will miss him.

John was honored for his long-term dedication to AARO at the 50th Anniversary Gala on October 6, 2023.

Watch the video here.