Robert Lee Friedman

Robert Lee Friedman passed away on April 21, 2026. He was 95. Bob left behind a legacy of love, proud children, and cherished memories.

Born on March 23, 1931, in Thayer, Missouri, “Bobby” was the only child of Steven and Faye Friedman. As the family migrated west to San Francisco, his outgoing athletic nature endeared him to his family and new friends. His grandfather, Joseph, an immigrant from Hungary, was captivated by Bob’s charm and lively personality. His earliest memories included riding in a delivery truck with his father, Steve, to St. Louis Cardinal games in the early 1940s. He was quick to remind us that his father was paid $1 per day during the Great Depression, driving his truck 12 hours a day. In high school, a Thayer Bobcat, he apparently “starred” as the quarterback, point guard, and pitcher. He only begrudgingly noted that his graduating class consisted of only 43 Bobcats. In Thayer, he met the love of his life, Alice Lee Thompson. Their lifelong romance began when Bob mustered the courage to ask her out for a soda at the local dime store. Bob joined the Navy and bravely served during the Korean War conflict in 1951. As a pilot, he landed on an aircraft carrier six times he was stationed in Pensacola, Florida.

After his service, he married Alice Lee on September 14, 1957, in Memphis, Tennessee, and soon welcomed four sons: Robert, Joseph, Steven, and David be began his career for Prudential Insurance in San Jose, California. He rose to the level of Executive Vice President, managing the Western United States.

His career required moving the family across the country, from California to New Jersey, then Virginia, and eventually back to Southern California. In 1980, he moved one last time from Los Angeles to Rancho Santa Fe, where he enjoyed playing tennis, cheering for the Chargers and Padres, while coddling his six grandchildren.

Bob’s love for family and sports remained constant throughout his l i f e . He coached and umpired little league baseball, was “Chief” of the Indian Guides, and always returned to his tennis, finding a game wherever he found himself.

A talented finish carpenter, Dad “could fix anything” and created toys for his grandkids. Cherished family memories include summer vacations in the station wagon exploring national parks and historic monuments on the East and West Coast. He and Alice Lee loved their Hawaii trips and several European adventures.

As a grandfather, he consistently connected with his grandchildren with love and attention to their endeavors and achievements. Alice and Bobby Lee practiced Midwestern values with a kindhearted love of life and people. Their home exuded warmth, style, and love for all those passing through the door. Large holiday gatherings and delicious family dinners were cherished traditions that continue to bring joy and unity to their family today. Bob’s life was full of love, warm homes, and joy with his family. Today we celebrate the life he lived and the love he shared with us all.