Jerald Jay "Jerry" Friedman

Jerald Jay Friedman (Jerry), age 90, passed away on October 10, 2015 in Albuquerque. Jerry was born in Syracuse, New York on March 9, 1925 and was the son of Philip and Jennie Friedman. He graduated from Albuquerque High School and then graduated from the University of New Mexico with a degree in Business. At UNM he was an active member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity where he made many life-long friends. Jerry proudly served his country during World War II in the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific. After college he married his college sweetheart, Maxine Krohn. Jerry's life was centered around his family and his business. Jerry along with his brother Irving and his parents, Jennie and Philip, worked hard growing the family business... Phillips Mercantile Company. He was very active in his industry trade group, Service Merchandisers Association, and served as its national President. In 1968 the Friedman family diversified and opened Value House, the first catalog showroom in New Mexico and Pixie Discount Stores. Value House expanded and grew to five stores and Pixie grew to five stores as well. He served on the board of United New Mexico Bank which later merged and became part of Wells Fargo Bank. After Jerry retired he stayed busy managing his real estate properties. He and his wife Maxine were very civic minded and supported numerous community organizations and charities. Jerry's main recreational activity was playing gin rummy every Monday night with a group of friends for over 40 years. They called their card group MEPFA which stood for Monday Evening Pigeon Fanciers Association. Jerry adored and was adored by his children and grandchildren who affectionately called him Papa. He loved having them come over to visit and especially to go swimming. After swimming he delighted in passing out Oreo cookies or ice cream bars as treats. Many thanks go to his caregivers who helped him during his recent illness. He is survived by the "Love of His Life" and wife of 65 years, Maxine Friedman, his cherished children Howard Friedman (Debra), Robert Friedman (Ari), Karen Friedman, Donald Friedman (Cori), Mark Friedman and beloved grandchildren Dana Shulman ( Zach), Rachael Friedman, Emily Friedman, Connor Friedman, and Adam Friedman. Memorial services will be held at Congregation B'nai Israel, 4401 Indian School NE, on Tuesday October 13, 2015 at 1 pm. Donations may be made to UNM Foundation and Congregation B'nai Israel.