Gerald Friedman, 83

CRANSTON, R.I. – Gerald Friedman of Hoffman Ave. died June 17 at Miriam Hospital. He was the husband of Sandy (Block) Friedman. They were married for 61 years.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., a son of the late David and Sara (Siegal) Friedman, he had lived in Cranston for six years, previously living in Warwick for 38 years. He retired in 1993 after a 33-year career as a sales manager for Admiral and Quasar companies. In his younger days, Gerald was an avid athlete. He was an All State and New England Champion wrestler at Hope High School in Providence. He was an avid handball and tennis player and a long-time member of the Businessmen’s Athletic Club of the Greater Providence YMCA, where he made many lifelong friends. In his later years when he faced several health issues, he never let them curb his zest for life. He found new activities to enjoy, including swimming and golf and learned how to use his own computer. His favorite saying was “Life is Good,” and he often commented on what a great time it was to be alive as he was amazed with all the new technology. He truly loved life. He was a devoted, husband, father and Papa and was blessed with many friends. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, including numerous family get-togethers with his children and grandchildren, his weekly card game with his friends, golf, Twin Rivers and a good cigar.

He was the father of William Friedman and his wife, Karin, of Warwick, Linda Palazzo and her husband, Andy, of Cranston and Scott Friedman and his wife, Beth, of West Warwick. Brother of Arnold Friedman of New York City, NY and the late Louis Friedman. Grandfather of Lauren, Andrew, Amy, Allison, Jason, and Jordan. Cherished great-grandfather of Matthew.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Colin Myers Memorial Fund, c/o R.I. Foundation, 1 Union Station, Providence, R.I. 02903.