Ralph J. Friend

Passed away May 3, 2016 at age 94. Ralph is survived by his lovely companion of many years, Joni Manary, sister Marion Bartscherer of Denver and many nieces and nephews. Ralph was born in Bristol, SD on November 21, 1921 to George J. and Addie Friend. The family moved to Denver in 1924. He passed away peacefully in his home at age 94 on May 3, 2016. After graduating the 8th grade at Sacred Sacrament in 1936, he went on to graduate from East High School, class of 1940. After serving in the Army air forces he graduated from Curtis Wright Technical School of Aeronautics. Then he attended aeronautical engineering at the University of Colorado. He was stationed at Marana Basic Flying School for most of his service in the 762nd Basic Flying Training Squadron. Ralph was honorably discharged in February of 1946. After 50 years as a prominent Aurora businessman in the furniture business Ralph sold his Friend Furniture Company in 1986. He always called himself a farmer as well, raising barley and wheat on his farm near Bennett, Colorado. Ralph's passion was helping young students attain higher education. He began in 1979 and has given scholarships, grants, and donations to over 30 students. The RJ Friend, Inc Private Foundation was formed in 1994 and he currently has a student at Regis University in Denver. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at Ten O'Clock in the morning at Risen Christ Catholic Church - 3060 South Monaco Parkway, Denver, Colorado. All are invited to attend a reception in Ralph's honor following services, also at Risen Christ Catholic Church. Interment will take place on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at One Thirty in the Afternoon at Mount Olivet Cemetery - 12801 West 44th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Please share your memories of Ralph and condolences with his family by signing the guestbook below.