ESCANABA, Mich. - Elsie D. Friedman passed away on Feb. 27, 2015, in Escanaba, at the home of her daughter, Darcy. Elsie was born in Bessemer on Dec. 14, 1919, the daughter of Sam and Amelia Cerioni. She graduated from A.D. Johnston High School and married Theodore (Ted) Friedman on Sept. 12, 1946. Together they owned and operated Friedman's News Agency in Ironwood.
Elsie was very active in the Ironwood community. She was a member of the Ironwood Woman's Club, Grand View Hospital Auxiliary, volunteer for the Red Cross Blood Bank, a patron of Theatre North and the Ironwood Theatre, and a "grandma" volunteer at Sleight School.
Elsie created an exceptional home, filled with love and laughter. She was an ultimate role model and adored by her family. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with her kids and grandkids. There were holidays, birthdays, programs, graduations, new babies to welcome, and the list goes on. Being a part of their successes brought her great joy. Her devotion to family and friends always made her home a warm and welcoming gathering place at holidays, reunions, and anytime throughout the year. Her beautiful smile, sincere and loving kindness and the flair she had for cooking and baking was enjoyed by all. She was an avid reader and her phone conversations, lunch outings and weekly bridge games with her cherished friends were a highlight. As one of her doctors said, "I know why you are going to miss her. She is a real treasure."
She is survived by her children, Fred (Kathy) Friedman, Darcy (Michael) Winkowski; grandchildren, Jessamy (David) Piepho, Treff (Heidi) Friedman, Thea (Justin) Jacobsen, Jarrett (Ashley) Winkowski; great-grandchildren, Jaustin, Titus, Sydney, Mattie, Keira, Mya, Claire, Ruby, and Ellie. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Elsie was preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Amelia Cerioni; her husband, Ted; and siblings, Roger and Fred Cerioni and Lynn Piazza.
Condolences may be sent to Darcy Winkowski at 1818 23rd Ave. South, Escanaba, MI 49829.
A celebration of her life will be held in the spring in Ironwood.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Homes are assisting her family.