Norfolk—Harold “Boodie” Friedman danced his last dance on January 25, 2021, after 92 years filled with joy and love for his family, friends, music, and G-d.
He was born on August 28, 1928 in Norfolk, Virginia. Boodie is predeceased by his parents David and Lillian Friedman; brother and sister-in-law, Sonny and Doris Friedman; and sister and brother-in-law, Bertha and Robert Hecht.
Boodie attended Maury High School and the Norfolk Division of the College of William and Mary. Some of his fondest memories were playing drums in the Maury High School marching band for the 1st Oyster Bowl at Foreman Field, going to Virginia Beach and riding the waves, and playing in the Norfolk Symphony as a percussionist while still a teenager.
Boodie served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Returning to Norfolk, he joined the family business, Beer Distributors, along with his father and brother. He took a hiatus from the beer business and became manager of several Rices Nachmans department stores in Hampton Roads. After a successful career in retail, Boodie returned to distributing beer and wine.
He was devoted to Judaism. Boodie served as a cantor on the Norfolk Naval Base during WWII and later sang in choirs at Beth El Temple and Temple Israel. He was absolutely certain the Lord blessed him throughout his life.
Boodie is survived by the great loves of his life, his wife of over 68 years, Bobby; son Alan and wife Darryl; daughter LynneDee and husband Allan; and daughter Penny. The jewels on his crown were grandchildren, J.D. and fiance Andrea; Lee; Ross and wife Grace; and his sugarplum Allie.
Boodie was a true Virginia gentleman with integrity and high moral values. He was truly content with the hand life dealt him.
A graveside service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery with a live stream provided by HD Oliver. Rabbi Michael Panitz and Cantor Lawrence Tiger officiated.
Donations to Temple Israel, 7255 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23505 or Freda H. Gordon Hospice and Palliative Care, 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 500, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. Online condolences may be sent to the family at hdoliver.com.