Irwin From Freedland

Irv was born February 27, 1946 to Joseph “Joe” and Sara Freedland. He was a graduate of New Hanover High School (’64), UNC-Chapel Hill (’68) and served in the Army Reserves. For more than three decades, Irv helped run his family’s department store, Friendly’s, on Castle Street. He was a natural salesman and skilled businessperson, but his true passion was working hands-on with his rental properties. Though he took pride in all of his properties, the one he was most proud of was his beach house, “The DYC,” on Waynick Boulevard.

Irv always had a strong love for life, but his happiest days began when he met his wife of 37 years, Dotty, and welcomed their three sons: Harrison, Burke and David. He was a dedicated father and cherished every moment with his wife and children. He loved his summers at Wrightsville Beach and enjoyed fishing, sailing, boating and spending time with family and friends.

As a proud Wilmingtonian, Irv gave back to his community in many ways, leaving everything he touched stronger than he found it. He was involved in many philanthropic endeavors and served on various nonprofit boards. Perhaps his greatest philanthropic effort was the donation of the land to expand the B’nai Israel Synagogue and the Temple of Israel’s cemetery.

Irv is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Dorothy “Dotty” Bridger Freedland, sons Harrison Freedland (Elizabeth) of Wilmington, Burke Freedland (Maddy) of Raleigh, and David Freedland of Raleigh; his three beloved grandchildren who adored him, Irwin, Eloise and Annie; his sister Molly Burke Baruc (Jeffrey) of Wilmington, brother Dr. Robert “Bob” Freedland of Wrightsville Beach; nephew Mark Whitman of Atlanta, and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

Irv is predeceased by his parents Joseph Lazarus Freedland and Sara From Freedland of Wilmington, NC.

A Funeral Service for Irwin will be held Friday, June 28, 2024 at 10:00 AM at B'Nai Israel Synagogue. A Graveside Service will follow at B'Nai Israel Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at B'Nai Israel Synagogue following the Graveside Service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to B'Nai Israel Cemetery Fund, 2601 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC 28405.