Richard H. Freni, of Vero Beach, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2016, at VNA Hospice surrounded by the love of family and friends after a long and brave battle with many health challenges.
He faced those challenges as he faced each challenge throughout his life, with incredible courage, resolve, good humor, and determination that made him successful, respected, and beloved by family, friends, and business associates. He was a man who lived large with joy, humor and a genuine interest in those around him. If a friend is a present you give yourself, he was the best of gifts.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Judy; daughter Kristina Agurto; son Richard Freni, Jr.; brother Ed Freni (Michele); granddaughter Tara Marie Freni, and grandsons Dominic Richard Freni II and Zackery Agurto.
Freni was born in Salem, Mass., and raised in the north shore area of Boston. His professional career with General Motors took him to various parts of the country, ending his career as General Sales Manager of AC Delco in Detroit.
He retired in Vero Beach where he had the happiest years of his life playing golf, enjoying life with his wife, family, and friends-particularly the very close bonds he forged with the group of men with whom he enjoyed playing gin every week.
Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday May 14, 2016, at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach.
