Bernard E. Frieze

It is with both sadness and gratitude that we announce the peaceful passing of Barney Frieze, 84, on April 23, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.

Barney lived a remarkable and fulfilling life. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of Henry and Helen (Little) Frieze. He was a devoted husband to the love of his life Carol. He was the most beloved father to his children Cindi (Joe) Sullivan, Barney Frieze, and Holly (Mike) Gable. He was a cherished grandfather to his grandchildren, Carrie (Kyle), Colin (Carmen), Taylor, Lily and Annie. In recent months, he reveled in the joy of becoming a great grandparent to Nolan and Shane. He cherished his childhood on Malvern Avenue in Overbrook with his siblings, the late Eleanor and Tom. He especially enjoyed his nieces and nephews, David, Helenanne, Eric, Jennifer, Jessica and the late Ronnie and Tommy Jr.

Barney graduated from Overbrook High School and thereafter enlisted in the Army Reserves. Upon his return home, he began an extensive 60 year career as a master carpenter with the Carpenters Union of Philadelphia. He built, renovated, and preserved some of the most prestigious and historic buildings in our city and the surrounding areas. He was a lifetime member of the Italian American Social Club, his second home. He was a proud American and loved his country.

Barney prioritized family above all else. He was a man who wore many hats and he wore them with grace and dignity. He was our teacher, counselor, chauffeur, and the glue that held our family together. But beyond these roles, he was a storyteller, weaving tales that brought laughter, reflection, and wisdom into our lives. He thoroughly enjoyed good conversation with anyone who would listen. He was smart, funny, and had an incredible memory. He was an avid reader and a lover of history.

Barney enjoyed many wonderful lifelong friends from his childhood, his colleagues at work, his neighbors, and the many people he met along the way. He never met a dog he didn’t like. He had an infectious laugh, a beautiful smile, and a love of life. He was a simple man who taught us to live fiercely and love deeply. Barney was an eternal optimist. His legacy is one of love, hope, wisdom, courage, and unwavering strength.

Our world feels a bit dimmer without his radiant light. But the beautiful thing about the sun is that even when it sets, it leaves behind a lingering glow, a beautiful promise of a new day – and so did Barney. He leaves us the glow of his love, the echo of his laughter, the memories of his stories, the wisdom of his lessons, and the imprints of his kindness. He continues to live in each one of us. Let us celebrate his life and carry him in our hearts forever.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing, Friday, May 3, 2024 9:30AM O’Leary Funeral Home, 640 E. Springfield Rd., Springfield, PA 19064, and to his Funeral Service, 11:00AM in the Funeral Home. Int. Private.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bernard E. Frieze, please visit our floral store.