John Friel III

John Patrick Friel III, 64, of Waterloo, died on Monday, December 30, 2024, at UnityPoint Allen Hospital. He was born on January 21, 1960, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, the son of John “Jack” Friel Jr. and Marion (Denner) Frohn. A 1978 graduate of Cedar Falls High School, John briefly attended the University of Northern Iowa before leaving to launch his programming career at John Deere. On June 22, 1985, he was united in marriage to Kathy Rhinehart at the United Methodist Church in Victor, Iowa; they later divorced. A lifelong innovator, in 1984 John authored and freely distributed QModem, a telecommunications program that helped thousands of users access bulletin board systems and, ultimately, the burgeoning internet. With his entrepreneurial spirit, he also established the Cedar Valley’s first internet service provider, the Forbin Project, bringing affordable dial-up internet access to his hometown. John sold his company to VGM at the turn of the century, staying on to grow the business, leaving and then returning prior to retiring in July of 2024. In retirement, he continued as the sole proprietor of Frieltek Consulting, continuing to share his expertise and passion for computers and supporting friends and clients in Northeast Iowa. Beyond his technological achievements, John was known as a gearhead, always working on his cars—especially his beloved Mercury Marauders. He raced his blue “Prorauder” at the Cedar Falls Motorsports Park and John received accolades at car shows and drag racing events across the country. John filled every space he entered with his jolly, friendly manner and a distinctive laugh that drew people to him. He was a father to one and a friend to all, generous with his time and always willing to offer support, advice, or simply a hearty chuckle. John cherished his time at home with his three cats—Thurston, Mr. Fluffy, and Trouble—who will deeply miss his gentle care and attention. He is survived by his son, Aaron (Rebecca Fay) Friel of Oakland, California; his mother, Marion Frohn of Cedar Falls; his sister, Ann Fremont of Des Moines; and his brother, Don Friel of Cedar Falls. He was preceded in death by his father; his brother-in-law, Darrell Fremont; and his stepfather, Robert Frohn. Inurnment and a Celebration of Life will be held at noon on May 3rd, 2025, at Greenwood Cemetery in Cedar Falls with a reception following at the Cedar Falls Women’s Club. John’s memory lives on through the technology he pioneered, the local internet community he fostered, the rumble of the cars he loved, and the countless friendships he formed along the way. Memorials may be directed to the family with online condolences and information on his service at www.frieltek.com.

John Friel III

January 21, 1960 - December 30, 2024