Vicki Friel

She was born August 11, 1946 in Fairmont Minnesota to Wilbur and Donna Larkin (née Saxen). She married her soulmate James Friel on July 8, 1988 in Glendale, AZ. She described this as “a marriage made in paradise.” As they sat next to each other each night, they often asked how they got so lucky.

Vicki retired from AJ’s Fine Foods where she was the Bakery Manager for many years. She was so kind to everyone there they referred to her as “Mama Vicki.”

She loved to love people and all were welcome in her home. She gave warm hugs that smelled of White Diamonds and she had the most beautiful smile.

Vicki also showed her love by cooking; the family favorite was her homemade mac and cheese. Everyone that walked in the front door gravitated to her kitchen and opened the pantry. Throughout the years she had many hobbies and loved crafts, including making intricately beautiful porcelain dolls.

Grandma Vicki's many grandchildren were her pride and joy. She kept up with their activities and loved to share updates. She would crochet a beautiful blanket for every baby that was born and did not stop doing this until her eyes and hands could no longer do it perfectly.

Vicki was active in her Lutheran faith and for many years enjoyed going to church and bible study. Her life was a living example of Verse 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Vicki is survived by her husband James, brothers Rick (Carol) and Nick (Laura), Sister Susie (Pat), Children Danny, Randy, Kenny, Lisa, Lori and Veronica, 23 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents Wilbur Larkin and Donna Scheid, step-father Rod Scheid and daughter Dawna Marie Hosler.

In lieu of flowers, welcome someone with love like Vicki would. Donations in her honor may also be made to the Arizona Humane Society (link below).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.westresthavenfuneralhome.com for the Friel family.