Laura Lee Gaedtke, 71, of Kittery Point, Maine, passed away of natural causes at her home on January 24, 2026. Born in Rochester, New Hampshire on October 12, 1954, she was the daughter of John and Doris (Cox) Gaedtke.

Raised in Lee, New Hampshire, she graduated from Oyster River High School and the University of New Hampshire. Her professional career included time as a Vocational Evaluator at NH Vocational Rehabilitation and for more than twenty years she worked in the Child Welfare Office of the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services in Rochester, New Hampshire where she touched many lives.

Laura was someone who brought happiness into the lives of those around her. She was a thoughtful person with a warm heart who found joy in making people smile. Laura was an incredible gourmet cook who enjoyed catering for friends and special occasions. She loved adventure and traveling within the United States and abroad with her late husband Dick Friedman and with her friends.

She is survived by her brothers, Larry (Carol) Gaedtke and Tommy Thurston, her sister Cindy Lyn Stanley, and her lifelong friends.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Richard Friedman in 2020 and by her parents Doris and John Gaedtke.

Laura will be remembered for her kind heart and the happiness she brought to others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace.

Laura and Richard have been committed to the ocean off the coast of Fort Foster.  If anyone wishes to hold a memorial service to say their final goodbyes the family recommends you go to Fort Foster.. To leave online condolences please visit www.jspelkeyfuneralhome.com . Care for the Gaedtke family has been entrusted to the JS Pelkey & Son Funeral Home.