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).