Louis Ayers Friedman

Louis Ayers Friedman passed away peacefully on March 7, 2016 with his loving family at his bedside.

Louis was born on April 5, 1924 in Seattle Washington to parents Dr. Harry and Florence Friedman, longtime Seattle residents. He grew up in Seattle, attending Stevens grade school and Garfield High School. He then attended the University of Washington where he was on the wrestling team and a member of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity, until he was called in to service during WWII. When he returned from the war, he completed his studies, and graduated from the University of Washington.

In 1952 he married Anita Katsman, also a Seattle native. They resided on Mercer Island for over 50 years – raising their 3 children, Laurie, Michael, and Jonathan. Louis worked for the Seattle-King County health department, and later went in to commercial Real Estate Sales. He served as a volunteer for several charitable organizations, and was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Millionaire Club and the Jewish Family Service. For many years he participated in bi-weekly handball games at the Washington Athletic Club, later taking up Racquetball, which he continued to play at the Jewish Community Center until recently.

Louis was a passionate reader and collector of books, and had a keen interest in art and antiques, spending much time in libraries and art galleries. He was predeceased by his parents Dr. Harry and Florence Friedman and his brother Jay Joseph Friedman. Survivors include his wife Anita of Mercer Island, daughter Laurie (Henry) Lizer of Los Angeles, sons Michael (Debbie) Friedman of Los Angeles, and Jonathan (Lori) Friedman of Mercer Island, eight grandchildren, Zvi (Tiffany) Katz, Elena (Brandon) Kirkland, Sarah Lizer, Shoshana Lizer, Andrew Friedman, Jason Friedman, Ryan Friedman, Kayla Friedman, and three great grandchildren, Seth, Benjamin, and Aaron Katz.

The family wishes to thank Auki, Christine and Mariah of Agape Manor for their wonderful caregiving during the last years.

Private services held at Bikur Cholim Cemetery March 9, 2016. Donations in the memory of Louis can be made to the Kline Galland Center or the charity of your choice.