Sam Friedman, who had family connections in Prineville and other central Oregon communities, died Oct. 14, 2006, at the age of 89, surrounded by loved ones and in the best of care.
Sam was born in Kansas City, Mo., in 1917, and raised in Denver, Colo.
At the onset of World War II, he joined the U.S. Army, moving from private to 1st sergeant in 18 months.
He served honorably in the U.S. Pacific Theater, leaving the service after the war and moving to Los Angeles.
Soon thereafter, he met Ruthye Shipp, and spent 33 years with her in marriage until her passing in 1974.
In 1948, he began M. Stephen Manufacturing, which manufactured and assembled electrical fittings. Eventually the business expanded with the addition of outdoor electrical products known as BWFs.
He successfully navigated the business world for 50 years, selling the business in 1996, yet never ceasing in his tireless work ethic.
His business success grounded Sam with a deep common sense. This translated to the philanthropic world, where he was known for his generosity, touching many lives.
Sam had a strong-seated belief that those fortunate enough to make well in this world have a responsibility to help others.
He was thoughtful, gracious, wise and had a wonderful sense of humor. His love, wit and spirit will be remembered by all.
Services were held Monday, Oct. 16, at Hillside Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in his memory be made to Congregation Nevei Kodesh in Boulder, Colo., (www.neveikodesh.org), P.O. Box 21601 Boulder, CO 80308, or to the Dale D. Craig Memorial Scholarship Fund, part of the Crook County Foundation PO Box 1061, Prineville OR 97754.
He was husband to Kathi, father to David and Sheela, twin brother to Eddie, brother to Rose Uchill, grandfather of 14, step-father to Steve, Doug and Scott Stroebel, and uncle to many nieces and nephews from all across the country. |
