Kevin Lee Friend

Kevin Lee Friend, formerly of Clearwater, passed away Sunday May 22, 2022. Kevin was born January 27, 1955 to Robert and Gail Friend. He was preceded in death by his son Kristopher, father Bob, and by his brother John. Kevin is survived by his wife, Mary, daughters Trish Rink (Brad) of Goddard, Kansas, Andrea Holt (Susan) of Baldwin City, Kansas, grandchildren Nathon O’Trimble (Derek) of Denver, Colorado, Aubrey Holt and Camden Holt of Baldwin City, Kansas, Gabbie Rink and Brooke Rink of Goddard, Kansas, mother Gail Friend of Colorado Springs, Colorado and siblings, Larry (Sue), Barb (Jeff), Gerald, Ed (Jenn), Terri (Rick), and Mark. Kevin was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and a treasured uncle to many nephews and nieces.

Kevin spent the majority of his career in aerospace, retiring from Spirit AeroSystems in 2013. Kevin was an avid music lover, often seen relaxing with guitar in hand. He loved gardening and always had a yard improvement project going. Above all else, Kevin loved a house full of grandchildren and family, which usually involved a very competitive game of pitch or scrabble and lots of fun in the sun by the pool.

Kevin was described by his nephew, Kenny, very eloquently, as “a complex man, a musician, a philosopher, and a critical thinker who enjoyed many of the good things in life- like a fine glass of scotch(or wine), a fine cigar, a well-tuned guitar, and a philosophical argument with loved ones. He taught us to always question everything and to explore both sides of an argument. Most important to him, that even when you disagree with someone – it is still possible to love and be there for them.”

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that contributions go to support the Ronald McDonald House or The Kyrie Foundation.