Obituary published on Legacy.com by Schlossberg Chapel - Canton on Dec. 14, 2025.
Barry Marc Friedman, born May 21, 1959, passed away peacefully on December 10th at his home in Duxbury, surrounded by those he loved most.
Barry is survived by his son Michael Friedman and Michael's partner McKay; his daughter Kara Smith and her husband Jeffrey; and his three beloved grandchildren, Ellia (8), Owen (6), and Jackson (4). He also leaves behind his wife Karen (Hurley) Friedman and her children, Jaime Waldecker (husband Michael Shanley) and Tyler Waldecker, as well as his former wife Kathy Shawver.
Born in
Perth Amboy, New Jersey to Howard and Saretta Friedman, Barry was the younger brother of Jeff Friedman, all of whom predeceased him. He is lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law Jill and his niece Laura.
Barry devoted more than three decades to healthcare, serving proudly as the Director of Radiology at Mount Auburn Hospital and Carney Hospital. He was known for his strong work ethic, sharp mind, and steady leadership. Colleagues respected him not only for his expertise, but also for his integrity and commitment to caring for others.
Those who knew Barry will remember his remarkable intelligence. When watching Jeopardy! he would often answer questions the contestants missed and joke that he should have been on the show. His quick wit, dry humor, and endless Seinfeld quotes kept his family laughing throughout the years.
Barry cherished the simple joys of life, like his daily cup of Jamaican Blue coffee. He was a devoted Boston sports fan, a skilled golfer proud of his celebrated hole-in-one, and a passionate lover of music. He enjoyed taking friends and loved ones to live concerts including Steely Dan, Billy Joel, and his all-time favorite, Bruce Springsteen.
He was also a lifelong animal lover, sharing his home over the years with countless cats, dogs, and even fish. His family often felt that he understood animals on a deeper level than most people, and they brought him profound comfort and companionship. He leaves behind his dog Luke and his cat Prim who miss sharing second breakfast with him already.
Barry faced cancer for the last decade of his life with extraordinary bravery and resolve. His strength gave him the precious gift of time – years in which he watched his grandchildren grow into the beautiful, spirited kids he adored. He always had a special smile he saved for them when they were around.
Services will be held at Schlossberg Family's Chapel on the Hill in Canton on Friday, December 19th at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at Mayflower Cemetery in Duxbury and a luncheon at East Bay Grille in Plymouth.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Standish Humane Society in Duxbury, where he had adopted one of his favorite cats, Yowlie.
Services will be held at Schlossberg Family's Chapel on the Hill in Canton on Friday, December 19th at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at Mayflower Cemetery in Duxbury and a luncheon at East Bay Grille in Plymouth.