Michelle Friel, 51, of Old Lyme CT, passed away October 4, 2019 at her home.
Michelle is survived by her husband of 28 years, Peter Friel and their two children,
daughter Morgan and husband Rex Rodanas of Stoddard NH and son Hunter Friel
who currently attends Miami University in Oxford, OH. She is survived by her
sister Elise and husband Vince Foster of Middletown, brother Marc Pear and wife
Dawn of East Hampton, CT, and in-laws Cindy and Harry Friel of Hadlyme, CT. She
is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and also her first
grandchild who is due in December. Michelle was preceded in death by her
parents, Joel Pear of Middletown, CT and Henrietta Pear of Moodus, CT.
One of Michelle’s greatest joys in life was her work at Nathan Hale Ray High
School, where she was the Guidance Secretary. Michelle found incredible joy in
helping the students prepare for their futures and also by working with a team of
like-minded and dedicated people. She made a difference in everyone’s life that
she touched as they did in hers.
Michelle was a caring and devoted friend with a real gift for making everyone feel
special. Michelle especially cherished the times she spent with her “Bunco Girls”.
She was an amazing hostess and enjoyed nothing more than sharing a delicious
meal with those that she loved.
Michelle’s courageous fight taught us all so much about how to live life. A
“Celebration of Life” service will be held at a future date which will be announced
by the family.
The Friel family is especially grateful to Michelle’s work family at Nathan Hale Ray
High School for their continued support and incredible generosity. They could
never have made it through this journey without them.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Michelle Friel to the
Connecticut Cancer Foundation 15 North Main Street, Old Saybrook, CT 06475.
