Billie Friend Obituary

Billie Cecil Friend was born on March 24, 1938, to Elmer Cecil Friend and Bonnie Berniece Gray Friend in Braddyville, Iowa. He was the youngest of 6 children. Billie grew up in Clarinda, Iowa. Billie passed from this earthly life on February 5, 2023. Both parents and sister Ruth preceded Billie in death. Surviving siblings are: Delmar Friend, Neola Peery, Lola Steeve, and Violet Williams.

Billie traveled quite a bit as a younger man, between work opportunities and his sense of adventure. He lived in several cities including Des Moines, Omaha, Los Angeles, Essex, rural northern Missouri, and Waterloo.

Billie was father to five children: Steven Dwight Friend, Carla Rae West, Denise Alene Fitzlaff, William Cecil Friend, and Susan Charlene Cook. Surviving children are Carla, Denise, and Susan, as well as 6 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Both sons, Steven and William, preceded Billie in death.

Billie (our dad) was a great guy - just ask the people he interacted with every day. Ask his neighbors, or the pharmacist, or the grocery store clerks at Fareway, or even the Kum & Go worker selling him the “big winner” for an occasional Powerball jackpot. He always had a smile and a few clever words. Billie took time for people and actually helped others if it was possible for him to do. His heart was soooo big!

He grew up in the 40’s and 50’s and just living was rough for him. But every day was a new day and he met each one head on! His life mottos were to “be on time (which is actually 20 minutes early)”, “work hard - really hard - no one owes you anything”, and “complaining doesn’t do any good for anyone - so why do it?” How simple; and true; and good medicine for us all.

Billie loved his children and family so much. He enjoyed times together whether it was for a meal or a football game or even a doctor’s visit. Anytime to be with us was important to Billie. And he never hesitated to speak and show us his love. Every phone conversation ending with “I love you” and every visit with a kiss and those same sweet words. Memories to be carried with us forever.

We miss him like crazy and hope we can follow his example to care for others, help where we can, and enjoy who and what is right in front of us. Thanks Dad for giving us your very best and always loving us just the way we are. Love you always. You are forever in our hearts.

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