February 19, 1926 - May 16, 2018

William F. Friend Jr., age 92, of Minong, WI passed away on Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at Essentia Health – St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, MN. 

 William was born February 19, 1926 in River Grove, IL the son of William F. and Rose Friend Sr.  He was raised and attended school in River Grove.  On December 25, 1960 William was joined in marriage to Lorraine Fuchs in River Grove, IL.  William and Lorraine resided in Union Grove, WI for over 25 years.

 He became a maintenance welder and spent over ten years with Kenosha Auto Transport. 

William eventually retired from Racine Steel Castings and was an active member of Union Grove Fire and Rescue for 29 years. 

After William’s retirement they moved to Minong, WI in 1983.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing and being the neighborhood Mr. Fix It. 

William is survived by his three children, Sharon (Steven) Swanson of Franksville, WI, William (Barbara) Rogers of New Port Richie, FL, Steven Rogers of Union Grove, WI; five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lorraine; brother, Wilbert Friend and sister, Ruth Albeck.

William’s family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all those in Minong who helped to look after him after the passing of Lorraine, especially Darcy Visger who quickly became like an additional daughter to him.

Memorial donations can be made to: 

Minong Senior Center

700 Houston Ave.

Minong, WI  54859.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Last Update: Dec 16, 2018 5:45 pm CST