The recent death of James Henry Friday closes a life marked by passion, perseverance, and personal connection.
James Henry Friday, age 85, passed away on June 10th at Meadowbrook Nursing Home in Bloomer following a brief stay.
His death came just months after losing his beloved wife Carol in March, as his health declined rapidly following her passing after 61 years of marriage.
Jim built a diverse and meaningful career that spanned multiple fields and demonstrated his adaptability throughout his life.
Born to Henry and Henrietta (Grevatch) Friday on May 5, 1940, he grew up in Stevens Point and distinguished himself as a member of the first graduating class of Pacelli High School in 1958.
During his high school years, he actively participated in sports, playing baseball, basketball, and football with notable dedication.
His educational journey began at UW Stevens Point and continued at St. Mary’s in Winona, Minnesota.
However, when his father died, Jim made the difficult decision to leave school and join the family business, Home Furnishings, in Stevens Point.
This early experience in business would prove valuable throughout his career.
After marrying Carol Ann Koziczkowski on July 27, 1963, Jim embarked on a new chapter when the couple moved to Menomonie in 1973 so he could attend UW-Stout.
He successfully graduated in 1976 with a degree in Industrial Arts Technology, demonstrating his commitment to education and professional development.
The family then relocated to Eau Claire, where Jim began his teaching career at North High School, instructing students in Industrial Arts until the program faced discontinuation.
Rather than let this setback define him, Jim transitioned into a completely different field, beginning a successful career with AXA Advisors (Equitable) as a financial advisor, a position he maintained until his retirement.
In retirement, Jim returned to his passion for woodworking, crafting clocks, tissue box holders, and hand-painted yard decorations.
He and Carol traveled to craft fairs throughout the region, selling his creations and building connections with people who appreciated his craftsmanship.
His woodworking skills competed only with his enthusiasm for casino gaming, as he and Carol became avid players of Keno and video poker.
They developed friendships through their casino visits and charter trips to Las Vegas and Lake Havasu, Arizona.
Jim also gained recognition for his secret recipe fudge, which he prepared during the holiday season and mailed in tins to family and friends across the country.
This tradition became one of his signature contributions to family celebrations and maintained connections with loved ones.
James Friday Leaves Behind A Loving Family
James Henry Friday leaves behind a loving family that reflects the strong bonds he and Carol built throughout their decades together.
The couple raised three children who have continued the family traditions of education, service, and close relationships.
His son John Friday, married to Liz, has one son named Fletcher, representing the next generation of the Friday family.
His second son, Jeff Friday, married to Martha, has expanded the family with three children: Abby, Alex, and Aidan.
His daughter, Jennifer Friday, partnered with Ken Lopas, complete the immediate family circle.
Jim’s extended family includes his sister Barb Doherty and her husband Paul Egge, as well as his brother Bob Friday and his wife Rhonda Friday.
The family network extends further through numerous nieces and nephews who remember Jim fondly for his warmth and generosity.
The Friday family has experienced significant losses over the years. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Henrietta, and most recently by his wife Carol, whose death in March profoundly affected his final months.
He also lost his brothers Tom Friday and Don Friday, as well as his sister Miriam Friday, making him one of the last surviving members of his generation.
The family expresses gratitude that Jim was able to visit with friends and family one final time during Carol’s memorial service the previous month.
In keeping with their private nature, the family has chosen to hold only a private gathering to celebrate Jim’s life rather than a public service.
The family extends special thanks to the staff at Meadowbrook at Bloomer and St. Croix Hospice for ensuring Jim’s comfort during his final days.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to the St. Francis Food Pantry in Eau Claire, continuing Jim and Carol’s tradition of community service and supporting causes close to their hearts.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Carol played violin in the Stevens Point Symphony Orchestra.
- Carol worked at Sentry Insurance in Stevens Point to put herself through college.
- Carol served as a docent at the Chippewa Valley Museum.
