Don Friedman, seven-term Colorado legislator and radio host, passed away Aug. 11, 2013, in Englewood. He was 83. Rabbi Evette Lutman officiated at the Aug. 13 service held at Fairmount Mortuary.
Interment followed at Emanuel Cemetery. Fairmount made the arrangements.
A third-generation Denverite who lost a narrow race for Congress against Pat Schroeder in 1976, Mr. Friedman is remembered as an outspoken Republican Colorado State Representative, 1962-1976.
He also was a popular talk radio host on KOA, KIMN and KTLN.
A fiscally conservative legislator, Friedman represented Denver and served as chair of the joint budget committee. He was a moderate on social issues, sponsored the first clean air legislation in the country and was a strong advocate of a womans right to choose.
He also was a successful real estate developer.
Mr. Friedman was born March 21, 1930, to Louise and Lester Friedman. He graduated from Randall School, received his BA from Wesleyan College and an MA in labor relations from the University of California-Berkeley.
After his one and only congressional loss in 1976, Mr. Friedman served on the Denver Water Board and consulted for the EPA and Colorado Commission on Higher Education.
An active community leader, he was a founding member and past president of Temple Micah, a past president of the Bnai Brith Lodge and board member of the ADL, DUs Bridge Project and the Hemophilia Foundation.
Known for his quick wit, especially his puns, he loved to play golf and travel.
Mr. Friedman is survived his loving wife of 37 years Jeanne Bahne Friedman; daughter Rabbi Dayle (David Ferleger) Friedman and sons Glen (Elizabeth) Friedman and Steven (Laura) Duris; and grandchildren Anya, Andrew, Jonathan, Anat, Avram, Blake and Connor.
Contributions may be made to the Bridge Project, 2148 S. High St., Denver, CO 80218; The Denver Hospice; or charity of choice.
Copyright © 2013 by the Intermountain Jewish News
