Robert J. Friesen

Robert J. Friesen, 95, of Rochester, NY, died in his sleep on December 23, 2021, after living many years with reduced kidney function. His energy levels had declined in the months leading up to his death. All he wanted to do was sleep. Food didn’t taste good anymore.

Robert was born on November 18, 1926, to Herman Friesen and Edna Harris in Rossville Kansas. The family moved to North Topeka Kansas when Robert was young. Robert lived in Topeka most of his life before moving to Rochester NY in September 2018.

Robert did not complete high school at Topeka High, instead getting a job in construction. He was drafted into the Army and served in the far east during World War II. He returned to Topeka, KS after the war. He resumed working in construction while also completing his GED and attending business school. He was called back to the Korean war for another 7 months of service after he was married. Robert landed a career job at Goodyear Tire & Rubber in 1953 working in maintenance for 30 years. At his retirement in 1983 Robert was a supervisor in maintenance. 

In 1949, he met Florence (Peggy) Driver, and they wed on December 31, 1949, going on to have two children, John (1952) and Steven (1956). They lived together for over 71 years only separating at the end when health reasons required.

Robert and Peggy built their first home in Topeka, KS on Wanamaker Road over the course of several years. The first section resembled a one bedroom studio apartment. During the next year they added a section making it a three bedroom house with two baths and no basement. The next year added a porch and a two car garage. In 1974 they sold this house and moved to 16 acres on NW 43rd street north of Topeka. They lived in a mobile home while building a new three bedroom ranch and a workshop for Robert. Robert and Peggy built a third home about 15 years later on the same property.

After retiring, Robert would tinker in his workshop and do repairs for others. He had picked up many skills during his life. Small engine repair, plumbing, HVAC, metal works, welding, and wiring just to name a few. Frequently you would find Robert sitting in the workshop talking with somebody that stopped by.

Throughout his life Robert enjoyed playing cards such as bridge, pinochle, pitch and hearts. He and Peggy would get together with other couples frequently playing cards and socializing. He instilled the enjoyment of playing cards and games in his two sons.

Robert is predeceased by his parents and his siblings, Geraldine (Ralph) Pitts, Dale (Irene), Don (Lucille) and Maxine (Charles) Lewis; his son John; and his daughter in law Lisa. He is survived by his wife, Peggy; his child, Steven; his four grandchildren, Melanie, Matthew, Jeffery and Brittney; and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life on May 31, 2022 from 4pm to 8pm at Snyder’s cabin in Gage Park, Topeka, KS. 800 SW Porter Road. Come say hello and share your Robert stories with others. Food and drink will be provided.