Four years have passed since Teddy Friedman of Becker tragically left his earthly home at the young age of 27. Teddy always had a heart for serving others and serving the Lord. He was selfless and loved life and lived it to the fullest.  

Recently, Candyland (a candy store in Stillwater, MN) contacted an organization who represents Gold Star Families; and that organization reached out to Teddy Friedman’s parents (Steve and Christina) about an annual “pumpkin race’ event held in conjunction with Stillwater Harvest Fest (dubbed the Midwest’s Premier Giant Pumpkin Festival).

Candyland is a sponsor of the event and reached out to Gold Star families to invite them to be a part of a race held October 12, 2025. The race is called the Giant Pumpkin Regatta with a goal of honoring fallen soldiers (Teddy Friedman served in the U.S. Army, serving in the Infantry).

Four participants were selected and raced on the the St. Croix River in hollowed-out, giant pumpkins during the Giant Pumpkin Regatta race. Noah Friedman (Becker native and brother of Teddy) was chosen to participate in the race in Stillwater in memory of his brother. Ironically, the race was held the weekend of the fourth anniversary of losing Teddy, which made the event even more special to the Friedman family. 

Three of the four participants tipped over in their pumpkins during the race. Noah was the only participant who kept his giant pumpkin upright; and he went on to capture first place in the race. 

“Although it was windy and raining, the water was surprisingly warm for this time of year,” said Noah.

Noah’s mom, Chris Friedman, was there cheering her son on. 

“The event was really a blessing to our family,” she said. “Many of our family members attended. The fact that the event fell on the anniversary weekend of Teddy’s death made it even more meaningful.”

Years ago, Becker Baptist Church used to host a triathalon. Teddy was quite an athlete and spent countless hours in the gym. He participated in Becker Baptist Church’s triathlon one year and was doing quite well early on in the competition, but ended up losing. 

After taking first place in the Regatta, Noah smiled and commented that he had redeemed himself in memory of Teddy by winning the pumpkin race. 

Well done, Noah. Teddy would be proud!