On Sunday, May 3, we lost our loving patriarch and hero, David Henk Friedrich. He was 88 years old and a true fighter until his last breath.

Dave was born on January 30, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, to Tony and Evelyn Friedrich. He was a kind and protective big brother to his sister, Maryann, and a competitive football player. Those early years shaped the hardworking, loyal, and family-centered man we all knew and loved.

His journey took him to San Diego, where he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He carried the values of honor, courage, and commitment throughout his entire life. His service embodied a profound sense of duty, honor, and love for his country—values that guided his life and were evident in the unwavering care and devotion he showed to those around him.

Later, in Atlanta, his passion for football continued to thrive as he played for the Atlanta Spartans semi-pro team.

In 1964, Dave married the love of his life, Maria. Together, they built a beautiful life, sharing a partnership filled with devotion, commitment, family, and deep love for over 61 years. Dave and Maria always had their doors and arms open, welcoming all. They were legendary hosts, known for great camping trips, BBQs, and parties, as well as vibrant waterskiing and boating adventures at their lake house.

A devout Catholic, Dave’s faith was the unshakable cornerstone of his life. He lived his beliefs with quiet strength, compassion, and humility, finding comfort and guidance in his faith while offering unfailing kindness to others.

He was a quiet servant at heart who didn’t need many words; his life spoke through his loving care for people. Whether he was being a great neighbor, lending a helping hand, volunteering at church, or instrumentally developing the football program at IHM—from building the field to enhancing the curriculum and coaching for many years—Dave’s character was unwavering.

To his family, Dave was a hero—the strongest man we knew, someone who could fix just about anything, and whose bear hugs were the absolute best. He was the pillar of his family: loving, dedicated, reliable, and truly trustworthy.

He led his life with steady commitment, always putting those he loved first. As a husband, he was a constant partner; as a father, he led with wisdom, patience, and care. As a grandfather and great-grandfather, he brought joy, laughter, and a sense of pride that will carry on through generations.

Known for his wonderful sense of humor, Dave had a way of making others smile in the simplest moments. His laughter was contagious, and his presence brought warmth wherever he went. Remarkably athletic and full of energy, he embraced life with an enthusiasm that inspired everyone. To know him was to experience kindness, loyalty, and genuine love. He leaves a lasting mark on our hearts and an amazing legacy that will live on forever.

Dave is survived by his loving wife, Maria; his children, Mike Friedrich (Naomi), Karen Friedrich French (Michael), and Catherine Friedrich Budd; his eight beloved grandchildren, Seth Friedrich, Anthony French, Taskar French, Emily Friedrich, Colin French, Abbagale Budd, Jeremy Friedrich, and Liam Budd; and his precious great-grandchildren, Zuzuannah French and Lawrence French.