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Jeffrey Friedman Obituary
Jeffrey Mark Friedman Jeffrey Mark Friedman, age 62, of Austin, passed away Thursday, June 7, 2007. He was born in Queens, New York on January 20, 1945 to parents Sidney Friedman and Evalyn Oken Friedman. Jeff graduated from the University of Missouri Kansas City in 1967 and the University of Texas Law School in 1970. In 1971, at age 26, Jeff was elected to the Austin City Council. After two terms as councilman he was elected mayor at age 30. He felt privileged to have been a part of Austin's beginning stages in the transition from a small college town to a much larger, robust city, while keeping Austin's unique culture alive. Jeff once commented to the Statesman that "Austin is one of the three most tolerant cities in this country, in the sense that we accept people at face value and only give them a harsh look when they've proven not worthy. Everyone is given an opportunity. . . . Hell, I'm living proof." He would then leave the realm of public service in order to give full devotion to raising a family and establishing his legal practice. He was predeceased by his father, Sidney Friedman. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Carole Friedman; sons Adam and Jordan Friedman; mother, Evalyn Friedman; sister, Jill Friedman; and many other loving family members and friends. Memorial contributions in Jeff's name can be made to Austin Community College's Center for Public Policy and Political Study, 5930 Middle Fiskville Road, Suite 414.3, Austin, Texas 78752. Contact Peck Young, Director, 512-223-7069. Services will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. at Congregation Beth Israel, 3901 Shoal Creek Blvd. Sunday, June 10, 2007 with Rabbi Steven Folberg officiating.. http://www.mem.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Jeffrey Friedman
Bob Foessett, Lt Col, USAF (Ret)
October 14, 2018
As a military guy on a scholarhip at UT Austin, my wife and I started our family in what was then a sleepy, beautiful, easy to get around Austin. We liked having jeff on the City Council and the Council was assessible, small, and pretty informal. Jeff once told us that we better be careful, as Austin could end up to be another crowded, big city like Houston with all the problems big cities have. We didn't believe him, but he was a visionary, a good man, and a great mayor. Too bad we didn't listen to Jeff in the early 1970s. Rest in peace, Jeff. You and Austin are missed.
donna jepson
August 17, 2018
In 1979 i was just 19 years old with a 6 month old baby when my husband was arrested on a felony charge for a really stupid decision he made. Tho his heart was in the right place his crime was very serious and i just couldnt go to either of our families for help. Like i said at 19 i was in over my head. While looking in the phone book i recognized the name Jeff Freidman! So i called his residence. Unbelievebly (i suppose being a sobbing young women contributed to this) the person who answered the phone did the unheard of...he went to Mr. Freidman's family dinner table and told the Mayor of my call! And he ever so kindly took my call. Sight unseen and without hesitation or even cash from, he gave me his associate Clarence Hansen's phone number. Mr. Hansen told me he would get right back to me. Soon after he called me back and told me after checking that my husband had no priors and he would have him out by the following morning. And he did just that. It will 40 years next year and i have never forgotten the great kindness that was shown to me that night! I just wanted to tell this story because i feel it shows the great character of a man that did not have to help, and also of Mr. Hansen who did not have to reach out either. And my husband never got in trouble with law again and though divorced now, we went on to have 2 more kids and live a good life. One that could have been destroyed...except for the compassion of a man who was willing to take my call during dinner with his family. Many thanks for letting me share my story, and i sincerly hope his family will someday read this testimonial and should be even prouder of Jeffrey Freidman. Sincere thanks, Donna Jepson
Cathryn Pierce
March 17, 2017
Jeff, I was so proud of our election win and getting to know during the race. I left the state for DC back in '73 and regret not staying in touch with you. Hear you did good work. Thank you.
Brian McLain
February 13, 2017
Dear Jeff,Thanks for all the help you did for me while I was in the Mexican Prison Lecumberri. Even though you passed 10 year's ago there will always be a warm place in my heart for you. Brian McLain
Ellen Rosner
July 7, 2007
I haven't seen Jeff in years-but he was a good friend of my brother in high school, and was, I could tell even in my tween years, a real leader, and had a charisma that drew all to him when he walked in a room. I still can picture that tall, handsome, funny guy, and my sympathy to his family .
Ellen (Marks )Rosner-sister of Ron Marks, one of the AZA HST guys.
Nancy Silverman
June 18, 2007
Carole,
I was so sorry to hear about Jeff's passing. I was there with you at the beginning of your life together, and I'm so sorry I haven't shared any recent memories with you. Jeff was so adorable, and I'm so sorry for your loss.
Nancy Neer Silverman
Roy Scudday
June 17, 2007
I worked with Jeff in law school and found him to be both exhilirating and exasperating. We would run into each other at Scout functions and other events over the years and I always enjoyed our catching up conversations.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Debbie Wesley
June 13, 2007
Carole,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know you are thought about, loved, and God provides comfort in these times.
Debbie Wesley
John Joyce
June 12, 2007
Dear Carole, Sherry and I want you to know that you and your boys are in our thoughts and prayers. After reading all the condolences and memories of Jeff, I really feel like I missed out by not knowing him, especially being a good Democrat.
Ronnie Goldsmith
June 12, 2007
Carole
We have just leaned of Jeffs death...and send our love and thoughts to you and your family. What a terrible shock this must be for all of you. We are out of the country and will call when we return.
Our love to you,
Ron and Susie Goldsmith
Margie K. Witt-Shelnutt
June 11, 2007
My mother worked for attorneys and Jeff was a law clerk in the same office. She always said that he was the smartest law clerk that she had ever worked with and she new that one day he would accomplish great things. He was always so kind. When my mother had to work late he would offer to pick me up from school and drive me to her office. I was about 8 and he had a very sporty convertible. I thought I was really cool and important. Years after my mother passed, at times, my family and I would consult with him on matters of importance. He always made time for us and he never forgot our mother. He was an outstanding man, a great attorney,and a Mayor with a wonderful vision for Austin,TX. He will be greatly missed by all who crossed his paths.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and children during this most difficult time.
Mary Bevil
June 11, 2007
Carole,
I am so sorry to learn of your loss. Please know Heaven is a little richer today. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Best regards, Mary Bevil & Family
Susie Honea
June 11, 2007
Carole, Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so, so sorry. From reading the entries in this book, Jeff must have been one heck of a man. God bless you and keep you,
Susie Honea
Deborah Ingersoll
June 10, 2007
I send my sincerest sympathy to your family for your loss. Jeff was a wonderful man and we will never forget the kindness he showed our family through the years. We will all miss him dearly.
Allison Baldwin
June 10, 2007
Sweet Carole, My heart is breaking for you - please know my thoughts, my prayers and my deepest wishes are for your condolences and your peace. You are so precious and loved - know I love you and am thinking of you and your family. Love, Allison
Chris (kit) Pearsall
June 9, 2007
My wholehearted condolences go out to all of Jeff's loved ones Carole, Adam and Jordon during these trying times. I helped with Jeff's mayoral campaign and the energy he displayed for just causes was epic in nature resulting in a sea change in public policy for Austin as well as state politics. He always gave me friendly advice during my brief foray into city politics also.
Skip McCarter
June 9, 2007
With deepest sympathy for your loss Carole. We at Omni love you and share your tears. God love you and your family. My thoughts will be with you in the days to come.
Vic and Judi Vreeland
June 9, 2007
I first became acquainted with Jeff as a Precinct Coordinator when he ran for Mayor. I recall the night he was elected when he announced, "Vic's Precinct was the only one to carry two to one for me." As a member of the local fire department union, I worked to achieve his victory. We thought he would be supportive of the fire services and he was! Never a dull moment with Jeff at the helm.
In more recent years my wife and I had occasion to use his legal services. When one thinks "lawyer," you had to think of Jeff. Jeff’s passing is scary, since Jeff and I are the same age.
Our deepest sympathy to his entire family.
Allen Kaplan
June 8, 2007
I still tell the story of the beginning of my political and public service life in Austin and that history began with Friedman '75. Jeff was everything that we wish our public servants could be. Words can't really express my feelings and my sorrow. Maxine, Ileene, Scott and I have Carole, Jordan and Adam in our thoughts and prayers...Goodbye Jeff...those really were the days...
Blinzia Foshko
June 8, 2007
I'm so sorry but so grateful to have known him. He was a firebrand and will be missed. I loved his politics and I agree that the Austin culture we knew in the 70's are bygone days.
jeff dorfman
June 8, 2007
Jeff was a friend for more than forty years. I respected him and tried to utilize his ideas. It has been many years since we spent time together, but I will miss him. My regards to his family and his friends, who will miss him deeply.
MATT & DODIE FROST
June 8, 2007
JEFF'S FAMILY SHOULD BE EXTREMELY PROUD OF HIM. JEFF WAS ALWAYS THE COMMON PERSONS FRIEND. EVERY GOLFER WHO PLAYS LIONS MUNY GOLF COURSE SHOULD BE THANKFUL FOR JEFF'S EFFORTS TO SAVE THIS WEST AUSTIN GREENBELT. AS PART OF THE "SAVE MUNY GROUP" TRYING KEEP THE POWERS TO BE FROM MAKING IT A SHOPPING CENTER AND APARTMENT DEVELOPMENT, THIS CAUSE SEEMED SO HOPELESS UNTIL JEFF AS CITY COUNCILMAN SIDED WITH
SAVING THIS COMMUNITY ICON. HE WAS
CRITICAL IN MOVING THE POWERS TO BE INTO A MORE RESPONSIBLE POSITION. JUST ONE OF MANY EXAMPLES WHERE JEFF WAS A GRASS ROOTS FORCE FOR THE COMMON PEOPLE IN THE AUSTIN COMMUNITY. WHAT A POSITIVE INFLUENCE HE WAS IN AUSTIN. YOU HAVE OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY.
Smokey Isgur
June 8, 2007
I first meet Jeff in the 1971, we were on the Aardvarks "freak" softball team together. I will never forget his wit and invectious smile. May peace be with his family during this difficult time. Smokey Isgur and family.
Patti & Phil Rudick
June 8, 2007
Phil and I were totally shocked to hear about Jeff. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We were just saying how long it has been since we've seen them. He was such a help to us when we were first starting in business. Jeff will be greatly missed by the Austin Community.
Eddie Butler
June 8, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Pat Ford
June 8, 2007
He was so passionate about his love of Austin. He made us all feel that it was our duty to do everything in our power to make and keep Austin the greatest City in the greatest State.
cathy cunningham
June 8, 2007
I'm so saddened to hear that Jeff has left us. It's strange for me to realize now that Jeff was only 28 when he (& his then-partner Jim Burroughs) defended me brilliantly--a little hippie/waitress caught in a drug entrapment case. I didn't even have the $1600 to pay for their services, but Jeff trusted me to pay him off over time. I did, & Jeff remained a dear friend of mine thru many years--always there when I came to him for advice, ever-generous with his time, no matter how strange or silly my questions-- the consummate counselor, gentleman & friend. An elegant intellect with a huge presence and expanse of soul too-seldom seen in this life. I only regret not having needed to ask his advice lately...I would have treasured one last conversation with him. Thanks for everything, Jeff. Peace,my brother.
Peck Young
June 8, 2007
It's hard to say goodbye. We shouldn't have to. It's too soon! Our prayers are with Jeff's family at this time but our memories are are far away with Jeff in a happier time. Thank you my friend for all you did and all you meant to so many. We will miss you but we will never forget you.
Susan Helfert Shaw
June 8, 2007
I'm shocked! Jeff has been an integral part of what makes Austin Austin. He has been of great help to me and my family, and we honor him. (Cannot do past tense yet.)
Jeff Crosby
June 8, 2007
A week or so ago, I saw Jeff lumbering up a sidewalk downtown. I thought to myself, "Damn, I need to get in touch with Friedman. I could use a laugh."
I didn't, of course.
Jeff was a crazy concoction that was one part Woody Allen, one part Groucho Marx and one part Peter Boyle -- all mixed with big heaps of courage and compassion.
I missed all of that the other day -- as I will for a long time to come.
Brad Sevaldson
June 8, 2007
All of my sympathy and love goes out to Jeff's wonderful family. They and the city of Austin have lost an extraordinary man!
John Moore
June 8, 2007
Part of Jeff's legacy was his role in forging the city/Austin school district partnership that established the Community Education program. I will cherish the memory of Jeff and Carole Strayhorn in 1983 celebrating the 10th anniversary of Community Education with a parody of the Wizard of Oz. They were both great sports!
James Burroughs
June 8, 2007
May the earth lie light upon you.
Clarence Hansen
June 8, 2007
Jeff was my friend for 35 + years. We were law partners before my retirement, and continued our friendship afterwards. Our families spent many happy hours on Lake Travis, shared Seders at his home and Christmases at ours. He was my son's Godfather. He was my friend, my confidante and I and my family will miss him dearly. May his soul and the souls of all of the departed rest in peace.
Larry and Mary Hansen, Norman, and Victoria
Kathy MacKenzie
June 8, 2007
Jeff...what an incredible man, lawyer and friend you've been over the years. Your passion in all you did was evident...whether it was your legal assistance and guidance, your performances at local theatres, or watching AMC during lunch breaks at the law firm. You're one of a kind that Austin was blessed to have. My prayers are with your family.
Dominguez Family
June 8, 2007
A mentor and friend to my daughter, an important and influential person to me, I will never forget what you have meant to my family. Thank you and Via Con Dios
Susie Krumholz
June 8, 2007
Morton and I are grieved to hear about Jeff and wish we were in Austin to be with all the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Jeff was a gentle giant among us ordinary folk, always a smile and kind word. He will be sorely missed by all of us. Love, Susie and Morton K
Cynthia Good
June 8, 2007
I will always respect the thoughtful way he treated me.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Marilyn Kelso
June 8, 2007
Jeff Friedman was instrumental in stimulating my involvement in Austin politics in the 70s when he ran for mayor. I turned to him later for legal advice, and will always remember his willingness to fight for what was right. I am shocked and saddened that he is no longer with us and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family. May peace be with you.
Jan Breland
June 8, 2007
Peace be with you, Jeff. Always a gentleman with a thoughtful hello, a smile, and eyes asparkle. I will miss your friendship, compassion, and encouragement.
Judge Billy Ray Stubblefield
June 8, 2007
My sympathy goes to the family and the many bereaved friends Jeff has left behind. His passing is untimely and doubly sad. It was always a pleasure to see Jeff in my courtroom. He was a zealous and principled advocate. He will be missed.
Tanya Scanlon
June 8, 2007
I work for Judge Herman in the Probate Court here in Travis County and Jeff was always a very nice attorney to deal with. My sympathy goes out to his family.
KEN JOHNNSON
June 8, 2007
Never agreed much with Jeff's politics, but enjoyed him as a man.He will be missed. God Bless
Monty Goff
June 8, 2007
I'm proud to say I worked for Jeff Friedman--as a City of Austin employee. I liked the way he ran a meeting. I liked the fact that he was a leader who remained human, was down to earth, and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was real! I recall that he had a particular habit of spinning around in his chair at the dais to mildly veil his reaction to someone's disingenuous remark, often around budget time. It was a good time to work for the City of Austin! He will be missed but not forgotten.
Nancy Adair
June 8, 2007
Jeff was not only my attorney, but my friend. In legal matters he stated "I will always tell you what you need to hear even though it may not be what you want to hear". He was so proud of his sons and was totally family-oriented! He was here to help everyone and will be missed! My prayers go out to all his family.
Kathy Rose
June 8, 2007
Our thoughts are with you. Guy and I extend our sincere condolences and best wishes.
Mark Thompson
June 8, 2007
I am sorry your gone Jeff. Life is to quick.
laurie silver
June 8, 2007
my first job out of college was working at kvet/kase radio and then ktbc-tv covering jeff and the city council and watching him transform austin during a magical period of history. jeff was a great mayor, a great man, a great husband and father, son and brother-in-law, a great friend and human being. my deepest sympathy to the entire family and my prayers for your healing,
laurie silver
Charlie Loving
June 8, 2007
We went back a long way. We played softball together. He played first. He was incedibly slow on the base path, had to hit a triple to get a single. He was a team player and was always there to play even when on the council and as mayor. It kept him in touch with the crowd.
We even got tear gassed together at one meeting on Gudalupe.
Adios Jeff
Judy Douglass
June 8, 2007
Jeff was mayor when I moved to Austin. The issues he cared about and worked for made Austin a better place. My heartfelt sympathy for his family.
Chris Brenner
June 8, 2007
Our Sympathies to the entire Friedman family.
Bill Dunlap
June 8, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Scott Buechler
June 8, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Margaret J. Gomez
June 8, 2007
My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. My interest in civic matters was sparked by Jeff's presence in the community. What a teacher! I will miss him.
Chris Dorbandt
June 8, 2007
A great attorney and friend. He faithfully served Austin and the community for many years.
Bruce Todd
June 8, 2007
To a life well lived. To one who fought for what he believed. For one who lead rather than followed. To one whose love and loyalty to family came first. Thanks for the friendship and service to community and a life which benefited all your family and friends.
Portia Schmidt
June 7, 2007
Oh my, what a surprise this is. It certainly does make our generation's mortality a sure thing. Mr. Friedman was the first politician that I ever voted for (City Councilman). The next person was Anne Richards (City Coucilman). We thought we had "won the war against the establishment" when we elected Mr. Friedman as our mayor. He was great,too. So caring and such a fireball! It was the best of times. Since leaving Austin, I have often thought about Mr.Friedman and the 60's in Austin, Texas. He will be missed.
Michael Coverman
June 7, 2007
Jeff was a great father and husband, and friend to our family. Our children grew up together, and we shared many wonderful family events and meals with them. Jeff led us many times in prayer, always for the well-being of others. I pray today for his family, and thank him for the role model he set for all of us.
R Ehrlich
June 7, 2007
Thank you, Jeff. Those times were good.
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