Minnette Doris Marks Friedman, 84, died Dec. 31, 2020.
Born in Irvington, New Jersey, on June 6, 1937, Minnette was the daughter of Paul Jerome Marks and Jeannette Samuels Marks. As an only child, Minnette developed a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. After graduating as the valedictorian from the West Orange High School Class of 1955
Minnette was offered a full scholarship to Douglas College, where she majored in Spanish. During college she was introduced to Bruce on a blind date. They were married on March 27, 1958 and enjoyed 63 years of matrimony. From 1956–1959, Minnette worked at the Newark, New Jersey Public Library as a librarian.
Minnette and Bruce worked side by side from 1959 to 1998 as co-owners of Vacations Unlimited Travel Agency. They were fortunate to have travelled extensively and shared the highs and lows of travel
to such faraway places as China, Africa, and South America. Retiring to Tucson in 1999, Minnette continued her Jewish education with the Melton organization, was a member or Congregation Or Chadash, Havarah and supporter of the numerous philanthropic endeavors including Handmaker, Tucson’s Jewish community, and summer camp for underprivileged children. Many enjoyed her intellect and thoughtful discussions on topics as wide ranging as politics, religion, economics, travel and philosophy, as well as her infectious smile and unmatched wit.
Survivors include her husband, Bruce; sons, Howard (Cara) Friedman of Seabright New Jersey and Sarasota, Florida, and Louis (Robin) Friedman of Boca Raton, Florida, and New Jersey; grandchildren, Jared, Amie, and Lindsay, and step-grandchildren, Sean, Zach, and Charlee.
