He was born on February 27, 1946 in Bloomington, Ill. the son of Rev. Clyde and Macel Friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Ronald and cousin Galen Friend.
Surviving are two nieces, Elizabeth Lagaay of Danville, Cal. and Molly Friend of Oakland, Cal. Also surviving are his cousins, Janet Mardell Shannon of Peoria and Dale Vogel of Onia, Ark.
Mr. Friend taught at Lindbergh Middle School in Peoria for twenty years before retiring in 2001. He also taught at Monroe Grade School and Edwards Grade School, both in Peoria County.
Mr. Friend graduated from Rantoul High School, Hamline University, St. Paul, MN and Illinois State University.
Cremation has been accorded by Remmert Funeral Home in East Peoria and his cremated remains will be buried with his parents in Virden Cemetery, Virden, IL.
Memorials are not requested.
