CHARLES “CHARLIE” FRIEND SR.

He was born September 10, 1943 in Wheeling, the son of the late Oren Elwood and Virginia Mae (Nickerson) Friend. Charlie proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army, carrying with him the discipline and camaraderie of his service throughout his life. Following his military career he dedicated many years working as a coal miner. In his spare time Charlie found great joy in the simplicity and challenge of working outdoors on various engines and loved to ride his motorcycle.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his sister, Amelia Evans and his first wife, Barbara (Frank) Friend.

Charlie is survived by his devoted wife of 11 years, Patricia “Patty” (Baker) Friend; his three loving children, Charles Friend, Jr., Kelly (William) Pounds and Kim (Jim Minton) Friend; two stepchildren, Annette (Wayne) West and William McClintock; five grandchildren, Daniel, Justin, Ryan, Devan and Gavan and five great-grandchil- dren, who brought light and laughter into his life.

Though he has departed from this world, Charlie leaves behind a legacy of resilience, a testament to the quiet strength of a life well-lived. He will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by all who knew him.

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