Lew Wallace Friend Jr.

Lew spent most of his life in Ohio. His family moved to Galion when he was six. Lew attended Galion Senior High where he was named both Outstanding Marching Bandsman and Outstanding Symphonic Bandsman. Lew served in the United States Army from 1978 to 1987. He then joined the Army National Guard and served for 11 years. Lew married Sheila Sheppard in 1998. He attended Ashland University where he proudly graduated in 1999. Lew greatly enjoyed teaching music and gave lessons at Metronome Music and at St. Mary’s Elementary. He worked as Band Director at Saint Peter’s School since 2008 as well as Assistant Band Director for several years at Galion High School. He also loved being a musician and played in many local groups. Lew was a member of The Knights of Columbus, Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA), and American Federation of Musicians.

Lew is survived by his wife, Sheila Friend; step-daughters, Christina Nolasco and Jennifer Kreps; four grandchildren, Natasha Holt, Brook Nolasco, Damian Kreps, and Summer Kreps; one great-grandchild, Aza Holt; siblings, Patricia (Dan) Everly, Gertrude (Gigi) Friend, Jennifer Downs, and Russell (Holly) Friend; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Richard Friend.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 7, 2024, at The Cabin, 915 West Bucyrus Street, Crestline, Ohio at 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Galion High School Music Program, Saint Peter’s High School Music Program, or a favorite charity of the donor’s choice in Lew’s name.

Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario is honored to serve the Friend family.