Lawrence J. Friel

Lawrence John Friel (74) June 10, 1944- October 23, 2018

It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the death of Lawrence Friel, on October 23rd after a long illness. He was surrounded by his loving family at the Tippett Hospice Home in Needham.

Larry was born in Charlestown, MA on June 10, 1944. He was the son of the late Joseph and Margaret (Ewell) Friel. He was raised in West Roxbury and graduated from Catholic Memorial High School with the class of 1962. Larry began his career with the New England Telephone Company where he worked as a lineman and foreman for 43 years. He maintained his friendships with a weekly breakfast club after retirement.

Larry raised his family in Walpole, where he was an active member of the community through the Kiwanis Club and serving as President of the Lions Club.

He spent his retirement years in Falmouth, MA and wintered in Naples, Florida. He loved to be by the ocean and making memories, but most of all, loved to spend time with his grandchildren at the beach, and grilling out with s'mores roasts.

Larry was an avid NASCAR fan and spent many years at the track in Laconia NH where he enjoyed the races with friends and family. He loved Boston sports and would call his family to make sure they were tuning in as well.

He founded and collaborated to create the Falmouth Dog Park (Cleo's corner) as a memorial and tribute to his son Jason Friel.

Larry was the cherished husband of Robin (Bestwick), and beloved father of Lauren Cummings and her husband Steven of Norfolk, Amy and her husband John Rosenthal of Norfolk, and the late Jason Matthew of Norfolk.

He was the loving "Papa" of Corey, Catherine, Christian and Cameron Cummings and Ben and Drew Rosenthal.

Larry was the dear brother of Marsha McDonough of Falmouth, Margaret Sittig (William) of West Roxbury, Kevin (Patricia) of Falmouth, John (Susan) of West Roxbury and the late Joseph of France. He was the dear brother-in-law of Mary of France. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a Celebration of Larry's life on Monday, October 29, 2018 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole. A Funeral Service will follow at 11:30 AM. Burial at Holyhood Cemetery in Brookline, MA.

Larry's family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to the staff of the Stanley Tippett House in Needham for their care and compassion during his final days.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Larry's name to the Falmouth Dog Parks Inc. PO Box 93 East Falmouth, MA 02536 or online FalmouthDogPark.com.