Mike Friend

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Uncle, Mike Friend. Mike will be remembered for his quick wit, fun loving nature, and loyalty to his family.

Mike was born and raised in Omaha and entered the Marine Corps right out of high school. After he was discharged, he moved to Colorado where he began his career in heavy machinery. He worked in tower cranes and demolitions in rock quarries. Shortly after he became a father in 1981, he moved his family back to the Omaha area.

In Omaha, he began working as a backhoe operator. He joined Janke Plumbing in 1986, where he stayed until his retirement in 2022.

In his personal life, Mike was a motorcycle enthusiast. He loved all things Harley Davidson and owned many bikes and enjoyed annual cross-country trips with friends.

Mike had a cabin on the Missouri River for many years. He liked to boat, fish, and hunt, along with many other outdoor activities. He often could be found by the river’s edge with a fishing pole, or by an outdoor fire having a beer. He loved smoking meat and sharing with friends & family.

He enjoyed all types of games, from cards with friends and family to casinos, dart tournaments and golf. He had incredible luck and skill. He won a lot!!

In 2007, Mike met and fell in love with Julie. They enjoyed 18 years together. Julie; her daughter, Samantha; and her son, Jimmy, were loving additions to his life.

In 2018, his son, Shea, moved to Omaha with his wife, Denise. Mike was overjoyed and loved having his son and daughter-in-law so close to him.

Mike was a beloved uncle to his many nieces and nephews and their children, generously sharing his love of the outdoors, fishing, boating, camping.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Richard W. Friend; and mother, Maxine D. Friend.

He is survived by his wife, Julie; son, Shea (Denise); stepson, Jimmy McNeil (Jessica; grandchildren, Liam and Grace), step-daughter, Samantha McNeil (grandchildren, Talon and Concetta); siblings, Cindy (Ron), Ray (Barb), Teri (Jason), Lynn (Raven), Mark (Tami), and Sue (Wade); nieces and nephews; and many other loving friends and family.

A visitation for Mike will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 1:30 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at westlawnhillcrest.com for the Friend family.