Stephen F. Friedl

Stephen F. Friedl, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 29, 2024. He was 64 years old. 

Steve was born to Marianne and Friedrich (Fritz) Friedl on October 20, 1959, in Grand Rapids, MI. He grew up with his two siblings, Sybille and Harold, and attended East Kentwood High School where he excelled in tennis and academics. 

After graduating from high school, he attended Aquinas College as an undergraduate. He then attended medical school at Michigan State University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in 1989. Steve then went on to complete a five-year surgical residency at Metropolitan Health Hospital (University of Michigan Health West). He continued to call Metropolitan Hospital home for the remainder of his distinguished career, nearly 30 years. As the Director of Surgical Residency Training and Chief of General Surgery, Steve took great pride in mentoring young surgeons. He excelled in leadership positions, ultimately becoming a fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons (ACOS). 

Through Metropolitan Health Hospital, Steve met his wife, Dr. Daryl Lawrence-Friedl, who was also a resident at the time. The two married in July of 1991. They enjoyed 33 years of marriage filled with love, travel, and family. Together, they raised three wonderful boys, Brandon, Ryan, and Alexander. 

When Stephen wasn’t in the operating room, he was always on the move. He loved spending time with his boys, often challenging them to a round of golf at Egypt Valley Country Club. His competitive spirit extended to his love for tennis, which he continued to play in club matches well into his 50s. His zest for life also took him on many adventures, with Disney World being one of his favorite destinations. In fact, he often joked that after retirement he would become a ferry captain at EPCOT.

Steve’s legacy is marked by his integrity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family and career. He was also a social butterfly; you could often find him striking up friendly conversations with strangers while out in his daily life, always prioritizing making people feel special.

Steve is survived by his wife, Daryl; children, Brandon (Klaire), Ryan (Abbigale), and Alexander; brother, Harold (Lynn); nephew, Christopher; brother-in-law, Kris, as well as several other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins who will all miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister.

Friends may gather with Stephen's family on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, 1-3 PM at Ada Congregational Church, 6330 Ada Drive SE, Ada, MI 49301, where the service to celebrate his life will follow at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Stephen’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, a cause that was close to his heart. 

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