Ralph G. Freden

Ralph Gunnar Freden, 73, of Holly, Michigan, passed away on March 4, 2026. Ralph was born on October 21, 1952, to Alvar and Shirley Freden. He graduated from Farmington High School in Farmington, Michigan. Ralph spent many years working in the parts department at Jack Cauley Chevrolet, where he was known as a hardworking and dependable employee who rarely missed a day of work. Ralph shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with his loving wife and devoted caregiver, Mary. He is also survived by his daughter, Bridget, and son-in-law, Kyle Hopkins; and his beloved grandchildren, Isla, Erin, and Brock. He is also survived by his cherished niece, Abbie; his sister, Jean (Tom) Halm; many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends; and his loyal dog, Pearl. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvar and Shirley Freden; his sister, Gale Wilson; his in-laws, William and Abbie Cullen; and his sister-in-law, Catherine Colvin. Ralph loved spending time with his family and cherished family vacations. In his younger years, he could often be found at the family cabin at Higgins Lake. Later in life, he enjoyed many trips to Disney World with his family, creating memories that will be treasured forever. Ralph loved Detroit sports, and you could always tell who was playing that day by the shirt he was wearing. He was incredibly proud of his daughter attending Michigan State and proudly wore MSU clothing and hats while cheering on the Spartans. Ralph also enjoyed golfing and bowling and rarely missed a good game show. When sports were not on, he enjoyed watching the Game Show Network. One of his favorite traditions was his nightly “date” with his wife, Mary, watching Family Feud together. Ralph was a calm and steady presence who had a way of bringing peace to a room. He was someone people could always count on and was always there for the people he loved. His quiet strength, kindness, and devotion to his family will be deeply missed. A funeral Mass will take place on March 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 309 E. Maple St., Holly, MI 48442. Immediately following the Mass, a memorial gathering will be held at noon at Villagers Restaurant, 1121 N. Saginaw St. #7, Holly, MI 48442. All are welcome to attend either or both gatherings as we come together to remember and celebrate Ralph’s life. Ralph will be laid to rest on April 17, 2026, at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan, with a ceremony at 9:00 a.m. in the Rotunda Chapel in the Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mary Freden which can be made to Dryer Funeral Home in c/o Mary Freden.

Ralph G. Freden

October 21, 1952 - March 4, 2026