Douglas R. Fridley

Douglas R. “Doug” Fridley, of Farmington, entered eternal rest on May 10, 2026, at Missouri Baptist Medical Center at the age of 84.

Born on February 18, 1942, in St. Louis to Ralph and Darlene (Giessmann) Fridley. He was the kind of man who could light up a room with his quick wit, warm smile, and unforgettable personality. He was known as a man of his word – honest, dependable, and deeply giving. Doug always saw the good in others, and would truly give the shirt off his back to anyone. The example he set will live on through those who loved him.

Doug is survived by his wife, Betty (Schaper) Fridley. He was a proud and loving father to Todd (Jolynn) Fridley of Ste. Genevieve and Tracey (Tim) Duggan of St. Louis, a stepfather to Eric (Amy) Schaper of Farmington and Jess Schaper of Golden, CO. Nothing brought Doug greater happiness than time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the pride and joy of his life.

He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Austin (Madison) Fridley, Abbey (Caleb) Harris, Andrea and David Schilp, Nick, T.J. and Maggie Duggan, Carter and Brenan Schaper; and by his cherished great-grandchildren, Avery, Briar, and Grayson Harris, and JD and Kayce Fridley. He is also survived by his aunt, Mary Giessmann, brother-in-law, Don Ruggeri, his nieces and nephews, Jeff (Tammy) Preiss, Carrie Preiss, Susan Rose, David (Karen) Ruggeri, Bob (Kimm) Ruggeri, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved wife, Carol (Mash) Fridley, whom he carried in his heart always. His family finds comfort in knowing he is at peace and reunited with those he loved who passed before him.

Doug appreciated life’s many blessings and found his greatest joy in the outdoors and in the people he loved most. Whether he was golfing, casting a line on the water, or hunting fowl, he treasured every moment spent doing what he loved. Doug deeply valued his lifelong friendships and shared a special bond with his grandchildren, never missing an event or activity More than anything, he loved being surrounded by family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support. His presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

For those in the Farmington area, a memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel. For those in the St. Louis area, there will be a celebration of life on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. at Tracey and Tim’s home located at 12788 Mason Manor Road, St. Louis, MO. Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to Ducks Unlimited, One Waterfowl Way, Memphis, TN 38120 or https://give.ducks.org/campaign/791279/donate  or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1999, Memphis, TN 38105 or  https://www.stjude.org.  View the video tribute and share condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.