HEATHSVILLE—It is with deep sadness that the family of Neal Donald Fridenstine announces his passing on March 10. Neal died while on vacation with his loved ones at Panorama Ski Resort in British Columbia, a place that held a special spot in his heart.
Neal was born September 1, 1941, in Elyria, Ohio, to Donald and Helen Fridenstine. He was raised in the Northern Virginia area and attended Fork Union Military Academy. Neal continued his education at the College of William and Mary, where he was involved in the ROTC program and a member of the Phi Lambda Phi fraternity, becoming their president in his senior year. After graduating in 1963, with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Neal served his country in the United States Army as a first lieutenant stationed in Okinawa, Japan.
Once he returned to the states, he joined his father’s contracting business in Northern Virginia, where they were quite successful in building three prominent developments and several custom homes in the Mount Vernon Area. After his father’s retirement, he moved his family to the Northern Neck, where he built their first home on the Rappahannock River. For more than 40 years, Neal dedicated his talent, passion and precision to the art of custom home building. Today, over a hundred plus of his homes, including the Heatherfield Court homes in Kilmarnock, stand strong as a testament to his trademark craftsmanship.
Neal was a dedicated member of the Kilmarnock Rotary Cub and served as president for a year.
Neal’s passion for community development extended further when he became one of the founding fathers of the Rappahannock Home Builders Association. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the direction and growth of the organization, where he served as president for several years. His efforts contributed significantly to the advancement of the local building industry and the enhancement of housing opportunities in the area.
He has been a longstanding member of Wicomico Parish for several years. Neal’s interests also included recreation and social engagement as a member of the Indian Creek Yacht and Country Club. There, he enjoyed both playing golf and dining with friends and fellow members. Neal also played a crucial role in the design and renovation of the Skip Jack, leaving a lasting legacy within the club’s amenities.
Neal is preceded in death by his parents; and his son, David Fridenstine.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Mullins; his daughter, Lynn Lennon (Mike Lennon Sr.); stepdaughter, Amy Mullins (Chris Sobray); and stepson, Adam Mullins (Kari Kirkham); his grandchildren, Weylen, Michael, Kylie, Christian and Clara; and his sister, Marie Williams; niece, Leight Taylor; and nephew, Stephen; as well as many family friends and neighbors who he so adored.
Neal lived his life to the fullest, and his mindset, “work hard-play hard,” created wonderful memories for his family that will last a lifetime.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on April 11, at Wicomico Parish Church, 5191 Jessie duPont Memorial Highway, Wicomico Church. A reception will follow at Indian Creek Yacht and Country Club, 362 Club Drive, Kilmarnock. In lieu of flowers please contribute specifically to the “Northumberland” YMCA where Neal enjoyed his exercise class and playing pickleball.
