Patrick C. Friedel, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, great grandfather and faithful servant, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 24, 2025, at the age of 79.
Born on June 27, 1945, in Hardin, (Calhoun County), IL, Patrick was raised in a large and loving family in Calhoun County, where he was the youngest of 12 children. He cherished his upbringing and shared countless fond memories with his brothers and sisters, all of whom have passed, except for his dear sister, Sister Mary Gabriel Friedel who lives in Pittsburgh, PA at Sisters of Divine Providence.
Patrick married the love of his life, Sharon A. (Rose) Friedel, on December 9, 1972, at St. Mary’s Church in Brussels, IL. Together, they built a life dedicated to their family and community. Their union lasted for 52 wonderful years, during which they raised a loving family that includes their daughter, Sherry (Friedel) Ruyle, husband Tim, son Patrick Friedel and wife Amy (Stamper), and son Gerald Friedel and wife Carrie (Fortschneider). He was a proud grandfather to Caleb Ruyle and his wife Rebecca (Ganley), Cole Ruyle & Samantha Dawson, Cierra Ruyle, Patrick, Bryant and Sawyer Friedel, Charlie Friedel, and a Great Granddaughter to Aurora Ruyle.
A man of unwavering faith, Patrick was a lifelong parishioner of St. Barbara’s Church and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where he held the rank of 4th Degree Knight. His legacy was defined by the principles he held dear—faith, family, hard work, and friendship. He was known for his dedication as a carpenter, farmer, and pecan man, providing for his family with unwavering commitment.
In addition to his work ethic, Patrick was known for his warm spirit, quick wit, and kind heart. He was a passionate supporter of the Calhoun Warriors, affectionately known as a Calhoun Warrior Superfan and enjoyed supporting all local sports. His love of nature extended to many years spent hunting, camping, picking out walnuts and pecans with Sharon. Additionally, he cherished bus trips and vacations with their children and grandchildren, and playing cards while hanging out with his closest friends.
Patrick will be lovingly remembered by his surviving siblings-in-law Melba Friedel, Agnes Friedel, Juanita Friedel, Jerome & Deborah Wade, and Kenny & Sandy Rose, as well as his godchildren Tina (Friedel) Haug, Brett Klaas, Bonnie (Friedel) Imming, Nick Friedel, Tim Ruyle, Joyce Friedel (deceased) and Keisha (Friedel) Hartle. He was preceded in death by his parents George and Anna (Keim) Friedel, and siblings and their spouses Paul, Charlie & Hazel, Gabriel & Roselie, Edward & Audrey, Aloys & Cecilia, Ethel (Friedel) Lehr, George, Joseph, Brother Norbert, Alf & Rita (Friedel) Klaas.
The Friedel family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support. A wake will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Gress, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home, in Hardin IL, with a visitation from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM. The funeral mass will take place at St. Barbara’s Church in Batchtown, IL, at 10:00 AM on April 30, 2025, with burial immediately following at St. Barbara’s Cemetery with a luncheon afterwards at the Knight of Columbus Hall in Hardin, IL.
Patrick Friedel will be greatly missed but will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His life was a testament to love, strength, and kindness.
Memorials can be made to Calhoun Ambulance, Masses, or Family Choice.
Online condolences can be made at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
