Hon. Judge Stuart A. Friedman

Stuart is survived by his beloved husband and lifelong partner, Arthur Kane. Together since 1974, Stuart and Arthur shared more than five decades of life and love, and were married in 2013. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Chuck Lissauer; niece, Karen (Robert) Ranta; nephew, David Lissauer; and great-niece and great-nephews, Talia Lissauer, Brian Ranta, Joseph Ranta, Soloman Lissauer, Ari Lissauer, and Judah Lissauer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hon. Judge Bernard Friedman and Bernice “Betty” Friedman (Bernstein), and his sister, Alice Lissauer. Stuart’s family extended far beyond those related to him by blood. His bailiff fondly recalled that his children always knew him simply as “Papa Judge Stuart,” a reflection of the special place he held in the lives of so many. He leaves behind not only a loving family, but countless friends and members of the community who will deeply miss him.

Stuart dedicated more than 40 years to a distinguished career in law, including serving as a judge for the Common Pleas Court. After serving five terms, he retired in 2023. Throughout his career, Stuart approached his work with a deep commitment to equality and service to others. He was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Michigan Law School, and the London School of Economics.

Outside of his legal career, Stuart had a lifelong appreciation for classical music and enjoyed playing the piano. He loved to travel, and his adventures with Arthur took them around the world, including Europe and Central America, where they shared many memorable trips enjoying classical music together. His love of music and his community came together through his passion for The Music Settlement, which he generously supported to help continue music education and foster a love of music for generations. Stuart also had a passion for photography, gardening, animals, and cooking especially his favorite dish, moussaka. He will be remembered for his sensitive nature, generous spirit, commitment to equality, and deep love for his family and community.

A service will be held at Congregation Mishkan Or, 26000 Shaker Boulevard, Beachwood, Ohio 44122, on Monday, September 14, beginning at 1:00 p.m., followed by interment at Mayfield Cemetery, 2749 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44106. Following the interment, shiva will take place at Congregation Mishkan Or until 6:30 p.m.

Donations may be made in Stuart’s memory to The Legal Aid Society, https://lasclev.org/donate/ where he began his distinguished legal career and his lifelong commitment to serving others or The Music Settlement, https://www.themusicsettlement.org/donate