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Steven Friedman Obituary
Memphis, TN
Steven Louis Friedman, of Longboat Key, passed away unexpectedly on August 21, 2016, from a stroke. Born on December 27, 1968, in Memphis, TN, to Sidney Stifft Friedman, Jr. and Ann Barnett Friedman. He married Betsy Noel on November 12, 1994, in Sarasota, FL, and is survived by his wife, his two children Nathan Friedman (19) and Audrey Friedman (17), his parents Sidney and Ann Friedman (Memphis and Longboat Key), his brother Sidney Friedman III (Longboat Key), his sister Ellen Friedman Kaplan and her husband Brad Kaplan (Atlanta, GA), and many nieces and nephews.
Steve attended the University of Florida from which he received his undergraduate degree and his MBA.
The phrase "he was one of a kind" was never more appropriate than to describe Steve Friedman. He possessed a zest and a passion for life that was beyond exceptional. Whether it was a simple act, like mowing the lawn or going for a jog, or a more ambitious effort, like landing a big tarpon or running a multi-million dollar enterprise, Steve completely relished the experience, and always like it was for the first time. This enthusiasm was positively infectious. Steve was indifferent to nothing, and he wouldn't let you be indifferent either. He brought you in, with his smile, with his laugh, and with that ever-present twinkle he had, as if you both were privately enjoying the best possible joke. His favorite and frequently repeated expression was "living the dream," and he tried to and seemed to, everyday. He took nothing for granted, neither his business successes nor his good fortune in being able to fish--his grand and favorite pursuit--nearly every day. And he especially did not take for granted being able to enjoy regularly the company and love of his mother and father (who was his best friend), and his brother and sister, and, of course, his beautiful wife and two wonderful young adult children. His was a full life, and one that every hour he realized and embraced. To say that he will be missed by his business colleagues, his many friends, and his family falls short of the mark. He was much loved and much appreciated. And, best of all, he knew it. Yes, he was one of a kind, and we will surely not see his like again.
Donations may be made in memory of Steve Friedman to Mote Marine Laboratories or Coastal Conservation Association of Florida.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on September 11, at Temple Israel, Memphis,
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Steven Friedman
Sponsored by Steve's Family.
Gina Pera
February 26, 2020
In my continuing search to find the Friedman family, our neighbors growing up, I am so sorry to find this announcement.
I was a regular babysitter for the three children, Steve in the middle, for many years. We lived across the street.
Steve was the sweetest child. Very sensitive. A lovely boy. I'm glad to read that he had a happy and full life and so sorry it was cut short.
My deepest condolences and love to his family.
Gina Pera
janice Pride-Boone
May 30, 2017
My heart breaks with this knowledge and our family grieves. He is such a great guy.
I know that his spirit lives and that gives me joy. Death cannot separate us. Our hearts are strung together with golden cords that cannot be broken by time or space or death. All that he is lives on in Betsy and his children. Love is eternal, it does not die.
We lift you up in prayer every day.
Jill Supovitz
September 11, 2016
Our hearts and souls are filled with sadness and prayer for your whole entire family. We only knew Steve for a few short months, but he was such a fabulous guy and exuded so much warmth. He welcomed us into your home and we enjoyed ourselves very much that night. We have made a donation to the coastal conservation Association of Florida. Please know that it was done with much love.
September 8, 2016
...life changes so suddenly and there are no guarantees, even when it comes to the things we love and cherish the most. Count on your family and friends to support you through this difficult time as well as through the long run. So very sorry for your loss Betsy and family.
Jim Bailey
September 8, 2016
Betsy, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We cannot imagine your grief and loss. I wish I had gotten to know Steve. He was clearly an incredible person, partner, and friend. We pray that you find peace and joy in this difficult time in the remembrance of your wonderful life together.
Samantha Spector
September 7, 2016
Betsy, Audrey, Nathan, Anne, Sid and family,
We've been thinking of you guys non-stop. It seems like just recently we were staying with you all at the lake, although I know it's been a while. Whenever I think of you and Steve, I think of that trip. He was such a generous, hospitable guy. He had a hint of mischievousness, too, that made him so much fun to be around. We've been so lucky to call him, and all of you, family. We love you.
Richland Elementary
September 3, 2016
Friedman Family,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Stephen Russell
August 31, 2016
Still in shock and disbelief at your sudden and way too soon passing. We became great friends just a few years ago when you moved next door here on Longboat Key. You had a passion for everything you did whether it was fishing, running, biking, DIY or work. WE had some great times on your boats fishing, 20 mile bike rides and jogging and taking care of projects around our houses. You had so much more to do and you will be sorely missed. We will look after Betsy, Nate and Audrey for you. It was a pleasure knowing you my dear friend.
August 30, 2016
I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope Jer. 29: 11,12 brings you some comfort during this difficult time.
Heidi Funk
August 29, 2016
I never met Steve but as I read the writing of how he truly lived life, I could feel his amazing fully alive presence in my heart. Blessings of love to Steve's family as you continue to celebrate his life and who he was to you. Warm Regards, Heidi
Susan Emery
August 29, 2016
Dear Betsy,
I only took care of Steve one day in the ICU at SMH and just in that short time, I was aware of the deep love his family had for him. I am so sorry to hear of his passing - such a loved individual. Prayers to all of you.....Rest in sweet peace, Steve.
Ellen Kaplan
August 28, 2016
Life will run at a slower pace with this guy gone. What an unbelievable loss for us all. I hope that the pain lessons as we reflect on all the wonderful memories that he has provided us with. I love you so much Steve!
August 26, 2016
Dear Ann and Sid, my heart is breaking for you and Betsy,Ellen,Sid and their families. I am sending you my love and prayers, and a warm loving hug . Barbara Levi Long,Miramar Beach,FL
August 25, 2016
To Dr.and Ann
our prayers and thoughts are with you and the family
John and Dale Coburn (Jr.)
August 25, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the entire family . We have had some memorable times over the years that we knew Steve and those times will certainly be cherished .
No matter if it was business or pleasure ; Steve was always there 110% .
We'll miss you buddy !
John and Mary Ann Cole
New Orleans , La.
ian braunstein
August 25, 2016
There are no wordsWhat a tragic loss. I know Steven through business, and his door was always open. I always enjoyed his company. He was a perfect example of a good and kind man.
So driven, young, engaging and successful.
I am so sorry for his loss to all who knew him. He was an awesome guy
Wishing strength and fond memories to carry you all through these rough times.
RIP Steven.
Ian Armus
August 25, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Steve was one of the nicest people I ever had the good fortune of knowing and he will be missed!
Julie Ahern
August 25, 2016
Ann and Sid, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family during this very difficult time. Julie Ahern (Mary & Paul Ahern's Daughter)
August 25, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Lots of Love, Phyllis and Stephen
August 24, 2016
Betsy, I am so glad that I met Steve on the day I met you, even if it was just for a minute - at least I got to see his smile. He will always be smiling at you, and he will still make you smile when you think of the memories you shared. It is a blessing that you have family nearby to be with you. Wishing you courage and comfort. Margaret.
Laura and Larry Gladstone
August 24, 2016
Our love and condolences to Ann and Sid and your extended family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Marcy Milman
August 24, 2016
Thinking of you and sending our love and prayers to your entire family
David Gold
August 24, 2016
You will me missed greatly. I am sorry your life was cut short but I know you lived life to the fullest.
Mark Zellner
August 24, 2016
Sid and Ann, I am so sorry to see this. My most heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Liz Coad
August 24, 2016
Continued prayers for you & your children, Betsey. ❤ I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that God cradles your hearts in this time of grief. Sending love from the Coad family.
Debbie Everett
August 24, 2016
Thoughts and prayers for Betsy and children, Dr. Sid & Mrs. Ann, Sid III and Ellen.
August 24, 2016
We had a number of inspiring (he provided the inspiration) early morning chats in the Beachplace workout room. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Carol and Jay Kitterman
Tina Liu
August 24, 2016
I was thinking to visit you long ago but always put on next year. Then I get husband, get baby. Then I still put the visiting plan on next year. Last month I did talk to Bob that I must visit you guys next summer with my husband and kid. So much want to let you see who I married. But you are not there any more next year. Thinking of you and missing you with beautiful memory.
Dave Mueller
August 24, 2016
Steve, thank you for all you did for me and my family. I cannot believe that you are gone. I will do my very best to uphold and grow the team and culture at Highline as you would want your team to do.
We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Shirley Huang
August 23, 2016
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Charles Mopps
August 23, 2016
Just to think we were racing along the gulf a few weeks ago aboard the Geico Caveman Boat, and now... It is so hard to believe and take that we will never get that fishing trip in, a text still on my phone. I have been around the world a few times and have been blessed with the kindness, trust and support of many along the way. But Steve stand out as a true gentleman and friend.
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