Barry was born on July 26, 1957 in Bloomington, Indiana to the late Albert and Viola (Curtland) Friend.
Barry grew up near Orland and graduated from Prairie Heights High School in 1975. He was known in his football career as the “King of Tackles” , as current records still hold, Single Season tackles with 237 in 1975 and career tackles with 572 from 1972-1975.
“ It is not necessary to see a good tackle, you can hear it “
( KNUTE ROCKNE )
Barry loved spending time with his grandchildren and family , he loved the outdoors. He was very knowledgeable about many things, history, sports, sports memorabilia, music (especially Lynyrd Skynyrd ) and he had a memory like no other. He enjoyed sharing his many stories to anyone who wanted to listen.
Survivors include his children, BJ Friend of LaGrange, Indiana, Samantha Friend of Angola, Indiana and Sabrina Friend of Orland, Indiana, his grandchildren, Addy Parr, Walker Kellett, Briar Mertens, Journee Mertens and Foster Boots, brothers, Albert (Cathy) Friend, Jr. and Bruce Friend, both of Orland, Indiana, a sister, Deborah (Jeffrey) Carroll of Orland, Indiana and the mother of his children, Sherilyn Friend (Spade).
A private celebration of life will be held at a later time.
Memorial contributions in his memory may be directed to Prairie Heights Community Schools Football Boosters, 305 S 1150 E, LaGrange, Indiana 46761.
