William R. Friend, 82, of Peru passed away at 4:47 PM, Friday, November 24, 2023, at Fort Wayne Lutheran Hospital. He was born in Peru on July 3, 1941, the son of Ira and Aletha (Floor) Friend. William married Mary Sue Collett on April 12, 2011, and she survives.

William attended Peru High School and was a member of the Church of Christ at Grissom Air Force Base. He worked in Civil Service as a Lineman, served in the Army National Guard and Emergency Management. He was also an active member of the Moose Lodge and the Eagles.  

In addition to his wife, Mary Sue, he is survived by his children Peggy Lee (Ricky) Hendrix of Peru, Harold (Lucinda) Friend of Peru, Beth Ann (Robert) Cox of Georgia, Ernest Meherly of Logansport, IN, Tonia Rose of Jonesboro, IN and Paul McMahon of St. Louis, MO; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; and sisters Edith Martin of Toledo, OH and Jeri Ann Brant of Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his parents and several brothers and sisters.

Per his wishes, there will be no services.