Bernard Joseph Friel, “Bernie” to his wife and friends, “Dad” and “Big Bern” to his eight children, “Pop Pop” to his twenty-two grandchildren and four great grandchildren, “Uncle Bernie” to his many nieces and nephews, all of whom loved him dearly, died peacefully at home on May 25, 2020 from Parkinson’s disease, at the age of 85.
He was born and raised in Philadelphia where he met his beautiful, caring, saintly wife and ultimate caregiver, Frances Ann “Frankie” (McMahon), with whom he shared 62 years of marriage.
He was preceded in death by his beautiful daughter, Karen Ann, parents Daniel and Susan (Fitzsimmons) Friel, siblings Sister Marie Suzanne Friel, Anna Conners (Frank), Josephine Friel, and Suzanne McKnight (Ralph).
Bernie’s childhood years were spent doing “Philly Kid” type activities like sneaking into games at Shibe Park, playing half-ball in the street and enjoying youth. He was humble but wildly athletic on the baseball field, and his skills were embellished by friends and brothers-in-law as “legendary.”
Upon graduation from North Catholic in 1952, he served in Korea. After his Honorable discharge on January 22, 1957, he returned home to begin his life with Frankie, work at Philco-Ford and start a family. His work at Philco ultimately led to moving their then family of seven children from a rowhouse in Roxborough to Lansdale, where their eighth child, “Kevin from Heaven,” was born.
A difficult economy led to him losing his job at Philco and starting anew. He went from driving delivery trucks for 7-Up and Rosenberger’s Dairy, to over-the-road big rigs, and finally delivery trucks for ACME. He persevered and worked hard to provide his children with a Catholic school education at St. Stanislaus and Lansdale Catholic. He was frugal by necessity and could scrape out a few more sandwiches from a seemingly empty jar of peanut butter.
He was a quiet man who enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He preferred light conversation and relaxing at home, having a Pabst Blue Ribbon while watching his Phillies (and on occasion he would “treat” himself to a St. Pauli Girl). He would laugh hysterically and unceasingly at his favorite shows (Archie Bunker, Seinfeld, etc.) and it was contagious. He loved simple foods like kielbasa, sardines, scrapple, and Steakums (and he could make a killer sandwich!). His work and children wore him out. He could fall asleep anywhere – in a room full of energetic kids, a noisy crowded family party etc. (typically waking up with a stretch and an “Ahhh Me”).
Throughout his life’s journey, he experienced both immense happiness and unconscionable sorrow. During the tough times he showed incredible strength, perseverance, and character. His character and conviction were most evident during his 25-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. He fought like a warrior. He never once complained about the effects of the debilitating disease and he continued to provide a great example to those who loved and cared for him. He was supported in his fight by his wonderful family. Frankie, his incredibly loving and devoted wife, provided compassionate, tireless caregiving. His eldest son Mike (Chari) visited often, and drove him to numerous doctor appointments. His eldest living daughter, Peg “The Matriarch” (Bill Pellak), provided support and led the efforts of his care plan with the rest of the siblings, including Tom (Lori), Maureen (Jeff Mattiola), Shawn (Chris), Brian (Kellie) and Kevin (Steph). These efforts allowed him to live out his years at home; the home where he and Frankie raised their family.
He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten, in all our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bernard Friel’s memory towww.michaeljfox.org/donate, the Pro Life Coalition (Attn: Michael McMonagle, 300 Greenwood Road, Lansdale, PA 19446) or his Hospice Care at www.give.abingtonhealth.org/hospice.
Due to the pandemic, services will be private with arrangements by Simcox-McIlvaine Funeral Home (www.simcoxmcilvainefuneralhome.com).
For Fran and all the Friels…What a wonderful tribute to Bernie! AND what a family. May he rest in the peace of Our Lord forever. We’ve been privileged to have paths crossed for many years. God be with you all. Very sincere sympathy from the Leliis. 🙏🏾
Bernie was an ACE: Outstanding Attitude, Caring & always tried to give his family
100% Effort! It was a pleasure getting know him and his loving family, however briefly.
God bless you & Keep You.
Coach MacGregor
Bernie will forever be with us , in our hearts and prayers. He was incredible. 💕
Dear Fran and family, Bernie was an wonderful person and will be dearly missed.
Fran you are amazing person! your faith and love have touched us all. Your friendship is a blessing in my life!!! I am here for you anytime of the day or night.
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family!
God Bless you all!
Diane and Bob Gamble
Beautiful tribute to quite a remarkable man. Sending condolences, love & prayers to all. The Smith Family ☘️🙏🏻❣️ Clementon NJ / Sellersville PA
Fran, so sorry the loss of your husband, Bernie. Hugs and to you. You & your family are in our prayers.
RIP BERNIE FRIEL.
Dear Fran & family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel the loss of Bern, We we’re blest to share our 5 Grandchildren with the two of you. We will hold in our hearts the special wedding day of your Shawn and our Chris when our families were joined.
May you have comfort knowing how you and all your family did such wonderful care in taking care of Bern in his time of need.
With our love and deepest sympathy. Joe & Maryellen
We are thinking of you, Frankie and your entire loving family at this very sad time. May you always cherish the wonderful moments that you shared with Bernie. We take much comfort in the belief that Bern is now resting in peace in God’s heavenly kingdom along with his loved ones there. We send our love, hugs and prayers to you and your family.
Love, The Haschets -Sue, Chuck and family
Such a loving tribute to a great family man. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May you find strength your memories and in each other.
Katy & John McGettigan
May God wrap you all in his loving arms and heal your broken hearts.
With Sympathy
Thinking of you, Fran, and your family with love and prayers that you will find comfort from happy memories. May Bernie rest in peace eternally.
My heart goes out to the entire Friel family, but especially to you Fran. I know you worked tirelessly to keep Bernie happy and comfortable these last 20 years or so. I know it took a toll on you, but I hope you can live in peace knowing all that you did for Bernie.
Words cannot express how sorry I am at the loss of Mr. Friel. My prayers and heartfelt love for Mrs. Friel, Peggy and the rest of your wonderful are with you all. God blessed Mr. Friel with his strength the love of his family during his battle with Parkinson’s. God bless you all. Love Denise Hanks 💖🍀
Love you more than you loved the phillies PopPop❤️
Fran, I am so sorry to hear of Bernie’s passing. After so many years it must be hard to say goodbye. With your abiding faith and so many family members to support you, your life will go on with happiness and fun. God bless, take care and stay safe. Laurel Enters
That was the most moving tribute I have ever read. Congratulations on life well lived.