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BORN

1959

DIED

2020

Mark Friedman Obituary

Friedman, Mark H. Mark H. Friedman, loving husband and devoted father of two, passed away unexpectedly on April 22, 2020, in Pleasanton, CA, at the age of 60. He was engaging in one of his favorite activities, rollerblading, when he apparently suffered a fatal heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Susan (Cohen) Friedman; their children, Shayna and Mason; mother, Annette; sister, Noreen and husband, Glen; sister, Riva and husband, Bob; stepmother, Karen; and countless other family members, friends and colleagues. He was predeceased by his father, Samuel Friedman; and sister, Karen Adina. Mark was born in Chicago on November 30, 1959, and raised in Palos Park. He attended Carl Sandburg High School, and graduated from the University of Illinois in 1983 with a degree in Computer Science and Mathematics. In 1992, he and his wife Susan moved to the San Francisco Bay area to further pursue his career, and they remained there to raise their two children. At the time of his passing, he served as a Director of Business Architecture for the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA. He was passionate about social justice and non-violent communication practices, and in recent years had made it his mission to fight to improve the quality of the workplace. He had a love for sports and fitness that included running, hiking, rollerblading and regular workouts at the gym. He was a former basketball, softball player and racquetball champion, and loved the beauty and challenge of downhill skiing with his wife and family in the stunning mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe. He had returned to Chicago as frequently as possible, and most recently celebrated his 60th birthday, as well as the Holidays, with his extended family in his native city. He was the appointed speech-giver of the family, and his wonderful sense of humor and quick wit enhanced his ability to give a touching and poignant toast at every family function. He was incredibly empathetic, smart, calm and practical. He will be deeply missed by many, however his loved ones are taking solace in the fact that such a generous, fun and loving man died doing something he truly loved. In light of the global circumstances, a private virtual memorial will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to the Positive Coaching Alliance, or charity of choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. 29, 2020.

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David Hagebush

May 9, 2023

I recall some wonderful conversations with Mark. We had differing points of view but we always managed to be able to express ourselves and know that the other person heard and respected our opinion. He was always a delightful person to know. We shared several activities starting with Cub Scouts and Bollinger Elementary or Iron Horse Middle School fund raisers. God Bless your spirit. I know you're likely off somewhere in heaven having meaningful debates.

Ben Yee

October 29, 2021

I'm heartsick. It seems like only yesterday that I worked with Mark at a tiny IT consultancy in San Ramon.

But that was a long 15 years ago at the beginning of my career and many times since then I thought of reaching out and finding out how he's doing

Rest easy, Mark. I'll always remember your unflappable calm and your good humor. Thanks for everything.

Bj Baker

June 16, 2020

So very sorry to hear of Marks passing. We are so saddened for him and his family

Sheila Dighans

June 7, 2020

Mark was a great coach when my son was in elementary school, he was always kind and positive with our son. I had the pleasure of knowing him as our sons where close in age. Im so sad to here of his passing and send my condolences to his wife, children and family.

Sheila Dighans

June 7, 2020

Mark was a great coach when my son was in elementary school, he was always kind and positive with our son. I had the pleasure of knowing him as our sons where close in age. Im so sad to here of his passing and send my condolences to his wife, children and family.

Don Kurtz

May 11, 2020

Mark was my friend, co worker, and fellow trouble maker for many years. He got me to the gym when I didn't want to go and was always supportive of me. A wonderful person in many ways

Judy and Stephen Levin

April 30, 2020

Our sincere condolences to the entire family. This tribute in his memory is a lasting legacy to his character and importance to his family and community.

Judy Bracken

April 29, 2020

This is a beautifully written tribute to a great man. I am so sorry, Susan and family, for your tragic loss. I didn't know Mark well, though you often spoke of him with so much love. Wishing you peace and togetherness as you grieve.

David Hagebush

April 29, 2020

I and many others I know have always had the utmost respect and admiration for Mark. He had a wonderful spirit, a fun and infectious laugh and someone you always get along with and communicate with even if you disagreed with his reasoning on a given subject. I enjoyed Mark's intellect and social consciousness and the times shared at school, social or Scout functions together. Your family was also a great blessing when we lost Elaine just 2 short years ago. God bless you Mark, Sue and your whole family during this trying time. San Ramon has lost a great man. You will be sorely missed! My sincerest condolences,
David Hagebush

April 29, 2020

There is nothing more to say, as this is so well written and truly describes the spirit of Mark. We will miss you.

April 29, 2020

Thinking of the family and wishing them comfort and peace

Faye

April 28, 2020

I worked with Mark at the University. What a wonderful, encouraging, positive, and all-around nice guy. I will miss him very much. My heart goes out to his family.

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