Obituary for
Alfred Friedman
On September 19, 2020 our beloved father, grandfather, friend and mentor passed away. Devoted husband of the late Kaysa Friedman, loving father to Michael and Stephanie (Klaus) and adoring grandfather to Oliver and Spencer. Predeceased by his parents Gus and Freda Friedman. Fondly remembered by extended family and many friends and colleagues.
Born in Ottawa on May 25, 1934, Alfie graduated from Lisgar Collegiate and went on to complete a degree in Economics at the Wharton School followed by an MBA at NYU. After graduation Alfie was invited to the Executive Training Program at Macy's, but eventually he returned to Ottawa to take over his parents' millinery business, Astor Chapeau.
In 1978 Alfie began his illustrious career in the restaurant industry, starting with The Marble Works and Alfie's Pub. Along with his partners he opened and operated over 14 restaurants and bars including The Mayflower, Oreganos, The Mill, Maxwells, The Penguin, Christophers and Buffalo Charlies.
In addition to being President of the Ottawa Business Improvement Association, Alfie was very active in fundraising and hunger relief. He was a founding member of Bon Appetit, Chairman of the Ottawa United Jewish Appeal, Vice President of the VAAD and was awarded for his years of support of the disabled Israeli veterans. Over the years Alfie was celebrated as Restaurateur of the Year and honored by the Ontario Restaurant Association.
His 86 years were filled with generosity, optimism and flair. He cherished his family and enjoyed travelling the world with the love of his life, Kaysa. Our family wishes to thank the staff at the Hillel Lodge for their incredible care and support, especially under these most challenging and difficult times. A private memorial will be held as a result of Covid-19 restrictions. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Alfred and Kaysa Friedman Endowment Fund" at the Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation (613-798-4696 x 224) www.ojcf.ca or the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health (613-722-6521 x 6719) https://bit.ly/2ZWhZgt.