Richard Leon Friedman of Palos Verdes, California, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025 at the age of 85. He was a beloved son, husband, father, and grandfather, whose warmth, charm, and compassion touched the lives around him.
Born on March 5, 1940, in Bronx County, New York, Richard was the son of Esther Shepnick and Benjamin Friedman. He graduated from Evander Childs High School in New York and continued his education at City College of New York, followed by Long Island University, where he earned a degree in management.
For over 50 years, Richard passionately dedicated himself to the textile industry. Since 1972, he owned and operated MM Fab, the parent company of Wilmington Prints and Wilmington Batiks. Under his leadership, MM Fab evolved into a prominent national and international wholesale supplier to the quilt and craft industry. Richard's keen vision and innate understanding of market trends kept him at the forefront of the textile world, always striving to provide the finest quality products and the freshest designs.
He cared deeply for those who worked with him. His leadership was marked by compassion, fairness, and a genuine concern for the well-being of his employees.
Richard enjoyed playing tennis, solving crossword puzzles, and was an avid reader. He loved watching basketball and baseball games. He was known for his sense of humor and sharp wit, with a knack for making those around him laugh, even if he occasionally displayed a bit of grumpiness. He was genuinely kind-hearted, caring for friends, family, and employees alike.
Richard's love for his family was profound. He cherished his parents deeply, with a special adoration for his mother. A man of great gratitude, he often reflected on the sacrifices his relatives made to come to the United States, and was moved by the risks they took to build a better life. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Richard always made time for those he loved. He considered himself fortunate for the life he lived—and he never took a moment of it for granted.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Gloria Yip-Friedman, his sons Jason and Adam Friedman, stepson Michael Yeung, and seven grandchildren. He will be profoundly missed by all those who were fortunate enough to know him.
A funeral service will be held in his honor on October 11, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Forest Lawn - Glendale - Little Church of the Flowers, located at 1712 South Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Richard's life and legacy.
Forest Lawn - Glendale - Little Church of the Flowers
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