Obituary
Friel – James K. of Wantagh, NY on February 4, 2023, at the age of 73. Beloved husband of Peggy (nee Hanrahan). Devoted father of James, Jr. (Carisa) and Katie Jansen (Erik). Cherished pop of Austin, Wesley, Kennedy and Clark. Adored brother of Mary McFeely (John), Ann Snee, John, Cathy Humphrey (Paul), the late Joseph (Mary) and the late Irene Marchitto (Joseph). Loving brother-in-law. Dear uncle to 25 nieces and nephews. A great friend to many.
Jim was raised in Rockville Centre, NY and eventually moved to Valley Stream, NY with his beloved wife Peggy, where they raised their two children. Later moving to Wantagh where he currently lived enjoying the beautiful life he created with his family until he was called home. He taught for many years and eventually retired from Valley Stream UFSD. They say, “to teach is to touch lives forever”, as an educator, Jim did just that by not only giving his students the power of knowledge but by also giving them the power to believe in themselves. He had a passion for boating and corvettes, was a pretty good handyman and the most loving pop to his 4 grandchildren. What he will be remembered most for is his legacy of selflessly doing things for others. "The world has lost an amazing man." Jim will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
