Billie Charles Friend's Obituary
Billie Charles Friend, age 80 of Fredonia, died Tuesday, July 10, 2018 at his home. Billie was born on September 8, 1937 in Fredonia the son of Charles Henry and Annabel (Lyon) Friend Jr.
After graduating at Fredonia High School, Billie served in the US Army from 1960 to 1962. Billie dreamed of farming his entire life, and in 1967 had the opportunity to move to Fredonia and began farming until 1991, when he began transporting mail for the USPS for 8 years before his retirement in 1999. Billie was a charter member of the Church of Christ in Fredonia. He enjoyed playing his guitar and listening to music, being outside and working in his garden. Most of all, Billie enjoyed Sundays, being with his wife, and helping prepare the family meal for the entire family after attending church.
On January 3, 1960, Billie married Esther Lambert at the First Baptist Church in Fredonia. Billie and Esther have been married for 58 years, Esther survives at their home.
Including his wife Esther, Billie is survived by:
Son:
Greg Friend and wife Jennifer of Fredonia, KS
Daughter:
Deanna Fink and husband David of Fredonia, KS
Brother:
Larry Wayne Friend of Pierce, CO
Sisters:
Ruth Rovenstine and Rita Phillippe both of Bartlesville, OK
5 Grandchildren: Jamie Gunn and husband Jacob. Joshua Fink and wife Abbey, Jonas Fink and wife Megan, Tristan Friend and Trevor Friend.
8 Great Grandchildren: Ethan and Charlie Gunn,: Briggs, Jace, Harper, Xavier, Yates and Zayd Fink
Billie was preceded in death by his parents; son Eric Lyle Friend and sisters: Susan Halgedahl, Martha Elsberry and Betty Ann Colaw.
A Memorial Service of Worship will be held Saturday, July 14, 2018 at 1:00 PM at the Church of Christ Church in Fredonia. The family will receive friends after the service at the church gymnasium. Online condolences may be left at: www.countrysidefh.com. Memorials have been suggested to the Church of Christ and left with or mailed to the funeral home. Services entrusted to: Countryside Funeral Home 420 S. 20th St., P.O. Box 247, Fredonia, KS 66736
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