Donald Otto Friederich Jr.'s Obituary
Donald Otto Friederich Jr. age 80 of Chanute, KS passed away on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, KS surrounded by his family.
Donald was born on January 13, 1944 in Chanute, KS, the son of Donald Otto Sr. and Anna Elmera (Matlock) Friederich. On March 2, 1963 Donald married Cheryl (Myers), she survives him.
Donald attended Chanute schools and graduated Chanute High School in 1961. After graduation, Donald worked for Mid-America Refinery in Chanute until they went out of business in 1985. He then went to work for the City of Chanute. He worked for the City for 24 years starting in the Gas and Water Department then the Power Plant at Plant 2 and retired from Plant 3.
Donald was an avid outdoorsman who had a passion for hunting and fishing. He had a love for fastpitch softball. He played locally for several years before starting his own team with Chanute Sponsors, Chanute Merchants, Consolidated Oil Well Services, and Young’s Welding. They traveled all over, playing in several states. Many trophies were won through the years, including a State Championship in 1983. Donald had many memories he loved to share with his family, one being, playing in the 40 and over tournament in Rockford, Illinois with the Brown Express out of Emporia as a pitcher. Where he was able to meet Dottie from the Rockford Peaches.
Donald’s passion didn’t stop with playing, he also spent time as a pitching coach at Neosho County Community College for the softball team. Because of his love for college fastpitch softball, he watched many hours of the sport on TV. There were very few baseball games he missed of his grandsons playing through the years. He was very passionate about supporting them, making sure everyone knew who his grandsons were. He was a member of Ducks Unlimited and the National Rifle Association.
Donald is survived by his wife of 61 years, Cheryl Friederich, sons, Jeff Friederich, Jamie (Kristy) Friederich, grandsons, Hunter (Dannah) Friederich, Sutton Friederich, and Drake Friederich, brother, Gary (Wanda) Friederich, and several nieces and nephews.
He is proceeded in death by his parents.
A graveside service will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Chanute, KS on Thursday, August 8, 2024 at 10:00 am. Memorial contributions can be made in Don’s name to the Chanute High School Baseball Team. The family has entrusted services to Countryside Funeral Home.
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