William J. Friese

William J. Friese, 64, of West Chester, died peacefully at his home following a long and courageous fight with illness. He was born to Paul and Marian Friese in Lexington, VA, on April 6, 1960 – one of a pair of twins who brought energy, love, and laughter to the family.

A proud graduate of Penn State University with a B.S. in Hotel, Restaurant & Institutional Management, Bill's professional journey began in the hospitality sector, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He worked for several prestigious organizations such as The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and The Lodge at Torrey Pines, CA. As an Executive Assistant Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational expertise, contributing significantly to the success of properties in Dearborn, MI, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Buckhead, GA, and Philadelphia. His career was highlighted by his role in earning several AAA Five Diamond awards at Torrey Pines where he also helped host multiple PGA Tour events including the 2008 U.S. Open Golf Championship won by Tiger Woods.

Bill's career was characterized by a deep commitment to fostering a culture of quality and excellence. He was a Certified Hotel Administrator, and also served as a Personal Care Home Administrator and Assisted Living Administrator in North Carolina and Paoli. His work at senior living facilities showcased his ability to lead and manage with compassion, focusing on creating person-centered service cultures that greatly improved resident satisfaction.

Bill was not only a skilled manager but also a mentor who guided many individuals in the industry. He was instrumental in several successful pre-opening ventures, bringing his vision and expertise to new projects. His leadership was marked by a focus on team building, market growth, and profitability.

Bill loved watching and playing golf, skiing, scuba-diving, and summers on the water at Go Home Bay, Ont., Canada. In recent years he moved back to Pennsylvania to care for his mother and spend time with family.

Preceded in death by his beloved parents, Bill is survived by his twin brother Tom (Peg) Friese of West Chester, sisters Carol (Bob) McGlade of Schwenksville and Janet (Greg) Clark of Bozeman, MT, Uncle Don (Elizabeth) Bartlett of Toronto, Ont., Canada, Aunt Helen Bartlett of Charlottetown, PEI, Canada, many cousins, nieces, and nephews, several good buddies who stood by him until the end, and the many colleagues and mentees who had the privilege of working with him. 

A private service for the family will be held. Condolences may be sent to the Friese Family at PO Box 26585, Collegeville, PA 19426. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Canine Partners for Life.