Darrell Lee Friesner

Darrell was born on June 7, 1923 in Augusta, Kansas to Herbert and Wanda Friesner. He survived the Kansas dust storms of the 1930's, the Great Depression, World War II, and the Korean War. A Navy veteran of 20 years, and a dedicated hospital corpsman, Darrell retired from the military and pursued a career in education. He earned three college degrees, and his proudest moments were when his wife and four daughters all acquired their college degrees as well. His education career included teaching at Zach White and Lee elementary schools and serving as a guidance counselor at Crockett school and Austin High School. After working for 28 years with EPISD, he retired once again.

Darrell and his wife, Maurice, were accomplished dancers, and they mastered square dancing, line dancing, round dancing, and ballroom dancing. He also enjoyed sports, taking cruises, carpentry, reading, solving puzzles, and above all, spending time with his family. Darrell loved his cats and dogs, and he was known to take in numerous stray animals over the years. Drawn to those in need, Darrell generously donated to animal rescue organizations, veteran groups and children's hospitals.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Paul, his sister, Phyllis, his precious wife of 72 years, Maurice Irene, and his beloved daughter, Cindy.

Darrell is survived by his daughters Cecee, Cathy, and Cara, 9 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

A special thank you is due to Enhabit Hospice (Marjy Brady, Raul, Gary, Maria, Pastor Rick) and Brett and Annette Stephens for their care of our cherished father over the years.

Visitation will be Monday, April 20 at 11 a.m. followed by a 12:30 p.m. service in the chapel at Hillcrest Funeral Home West at 5054 Doniphan. Burial with full military honors will follow at Ft. Bliss Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Darrell's memory to Animal Rescue League of El Paso, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Wounded Warrior Project.