Gary Patrick Friedel

Gary started his life as a military brat born to two immigrants but lived most of his life in Texas. Half Korean and half German he was more redneck and more Texan than the majority of the natives.

In his younger days, when he could stay out of trouble, he traveled most of these United States trapping and transporting exotic animals. He had an unequal knowledge of their behavior, capture, and transport. During his adult years he ran the family's Topsey Exotic Ranch.

Gary was a consummate outdoorsman and fisherman par excellence. He also enjoyed cooking, gardening, and Coors Light.

Gary loved talking to people with similar interest. Whether it be hunting, fishing, guns, boats, or exotics he could talk your ear off. If he put your number in his cell phone you were his friend and guaranteed to hear from him...often.

Gary was rough around the edges and colorful in language but he was a steadfast friend. He was generous and willing to help. He would interrupt what he was doing to rescue you on the side of the road. When you were away from home you always felt safe knowing he would be available to kill a snake on your front porch, check on a suspicious vehicle, call in a pasture fire, or just help out with your family's needs during your absence. He treated your family like it was his own and he loved his family like no other.

Gary reeled in the catch of a lifetime, Stephanie Gibson, on September 12, 2015. He loved her so much he allowed the wedding to interrupt dove season.

Gary lived life to the fullest until his unexpected passing on August 14th, 2022. He leaves behind his wife, Stephanie Friedel, his two young children Fisher Friedel, 2 yrs. and Finley Friedel, 1 yr. He is also survived by his brother Ricky and parents Annie and Gary Friedel.

He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and his long list of contacts that won't be receiving his frequent calls.

A funeral service will be held at 11am on Wednesday, August 24th at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home of Copperas Cove.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gary's memory may be made to Gary Friedel Memorial Account, BanCorp South , 505 E Business 190, Copperas Cove, Texas.

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