Daniel A. Friedman

It is with both profound sadness and immense gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Daniel Alexander Friedman, who departed peacefully in the early morning hours of May 26, 2025, at his beloved home on Ideuma Road in Unadilla, New York. He was 97 years old.

Born on November 22, 1927, Daniel‘s formative years were spent in Far Rockaway, New York, where he cultivated a deep love for learning that would guide him through a distinguished career and countless personal pursuits. He graduated from Far Rockaway High School. Daniel enlisted in the Navy Air Corps during World War II at the age of 17.

This path, then lead to Queens College, where thanks to the G.I. Bill, he studied Economics. A highlight of his academic journey was a transformative junior year abroad program in Geneva, Switzerland, Where he immersed himself in the study of diplomatic French – a skill and an experience he cherished throughout his life, speaking fluently until the end. Daniel also learned to speak Spanish, Italian, Hebrew and a smattering of other languages. To the embarrassment of his family, he also loved to adopt the accent of whomever he might be speaking to. Daniel later continued his formal education, earning a Master’s degree in Education from SUNY Oneonta, and continued to audit classes for his own pleasure into his 80s.

Daniel‘s adventurous spirit was ignited at a young age. As a small child, he was taken to Europe multiple times by his parents, instilling in him a lifelong travel bug. This led to him spending more than seven years working, traveling, and volunteering all over the world. Among his many remarkable experiences, he volunteered with Dr. Albert Schweitzer at his leper hospital in Africa, endured a stint in a Singapore prison where he contracted dengue fever and had to be rescued by the American Embassy, and embarked on cattle buying escapades in exotic locations.

Daniel discovered a lifelong passion for farming at a young age. His childhood was marked by holiday and summer vacations spent with his family at the beloved Van Loan farm in the Catskills, experiences that undoubtedly sowed the seeds of his future. This passion blossomed in the 1960s when he purchased his own farm in upstate New York. On 170+ acres, he not only raised beef cattle and grew organic vegetables, but also cultivated a sanctuary for deer during hunting season, a testament to his deep respect for the land and its creatures.

In his early 20s, Daniel worked alongside his father Jacob in the family tea business. While this provided him with valuable experience, it was in his early 30s that he discovered his true calling: teaching. He first shared his love of language as a French teacher in middle and high school, a role that perfectly utilized his diplomatic French studies. Later, he transitioned to teaching Social Studies in Bainbridge-Guilford’s eighth grade, where his passion for history and civics truly flourished.

Beyond his professional life and love of the land, Daniel cultivated a vibrant, close-knit circle of friends. He especially cherished winter ski weekends with the Sonner’s (Renee and Stanley) at their chalet in Vermont. However, he enjoyed many adventures, often traveling with his wife Paula and friends to ski resorts in Utah and across Europe. These gatherings weren’t just trips; they were cherished times filled with hearty laughs, big meals, late night conversations, and an abundance of joie de vivre.

Above all, Daniel deeply loved his family and was overjoyed to host gatherings at his home in Unadilla. Such occasions featured plentiful pots of tea, delicious, homemade meals harvested directly from the garden, and late night chats that stretched into the early hours.

More than his accomplishments, Daniel will be remembered for the values that defined him. He approached life with curiosity, keen intellect, and an unwavering kindness. He found joy in the simple pleasures: A walk on the country road, a strawberry ice cream cone, a well-crafted argument, and the company of those he loved. He taught us the value of hard work, love for nature, and the enduring power of a good story.

Daniel was predeceased by his parents Isabelle and Jacob Friedman, his sister Theodora (Tedda), and son Adam Friedman.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Paula Friedman, and his loving daughter, Rebecca Friedman, as well as nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

A graveside service was held shortly after Daniel’s death. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Helios Hospice of Oneonta, NY.  Our family benefitted immensely from the hospice services and thanks the nurses who visited (Paula, Chrissy, Julie and Mari) and guided us as we walked with Danny through his last days.  We also want to say a special thank you to Tina, LCSW of Helios Hospice.  We are grateful for all your ministrations.

Online condolences may be made at:   www.wmaddenfh.com.   Arrangements by the Westcott-Madden Funeral Home 123 Main Street Unadilla.  A MADDEN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME.

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