Paul Mckinley Friedt - Obituary

Obituary for Paul McKinley Friedt

It is with great sadness that the family of Paul McKinley Friedt announce his passing on January 22, 2025, at the age of 72, after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma.

Paul was born on December 19, 1952, in Akron, Ohio, to Beatrice (DeFelice) Friedt and Ralph Friedt. He graduated from Springfield High School in Akron, Ohio, in 1971. Paul served his country in the United States Air Force from 1971 to 1975 as a C-130 propeller mechanic, with assignments at Ubon and Korat Air Bases in Thailand.

Paul attended George Mason University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Trade and Industrial Education, and went on to graduate from the University of Colorado in 1990 with a Master’s Degree in Industrial Education, specializing in Automobile Pollution. Throughout his career, he lived in various locations, honing his skills as a master mechanic and educator. He became a TTI teaching contractor for Chrysler, which led him to California in 2001.

In 2009, Paul joined the faculty at Copper Mountain College in Joshua Tree, California, where he became a beloved professor of Automotive Technology. His work at Copper Mountain College was instrumental in securing accreditation from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), greatly benefiting his students and the institution. Paul was passionate about teaching and inspired many students to pursue rewarding careers in the automotive industry.

Paul was also a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and a Harley Davidson Academy trainer, further expanding his influence and expertise. Above all, he was a dedicated lifelong learner, always curious and eager to share his knowledge with others. His impact on those he taught and mentored will be felt for generations.

In his final act of generosity, Paul made the decision to donate his body to science in the hopes of advancing research on Glioblastoma. He was deeply committed to this endeavor, personally selecting the institution and ensuring that every detail of the donation process was in line with his wishes. This selfless decision reflects his ongoing dedication to helping others even in his final days.

Paul is survived by his son Evan Patrick Shipley-Friedt, sisters Vicki Simmons, Ann Shuster (Tom), and brother Roger Wayne Friedt, Sr. (Deneb), as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish his memory.

Paul was preceded in death by his father Ralph Friedt, mother Beatrice Friedt, brothers Jerry and Ralph Friedt, and sister Barbara Mead.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation, P.O. Box 62066, Durham, NC 27715, or online at Glioblastoma Foundation, an organization that was close to Paul’s heart and supports research and awareness for this devastating illness.