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Robert Friend Obituary
08/02/2024
Robert William Friend, Jr., affectionately known as Rob, passed away due to the complications of a devastating stroke, surrounded by family on August 2, 2024 in Berkeley, Calif., at the age of 70. Rob lived a giving, eventful and purposeful life. He was a gifted storyteller and poet, a healer and a helper, a seeker of spiritual truths, a lover of the outdoors, a community builder, and a lifelong learner.
He owned and operated the first vegetarian restaurant in South Bend, Ind., the Cornucopia. After moving to the Bay Area, in Calif., he developed into a skilled craftsman and, among his many projects, he designed and built two houses from the ground up. He later became a telecommunications designer and specialist, and was instrumental in establishing systems for major hospitals and universities in the area. He retired in Angels Camp, Calif.
Rob is survived by his daughter, Chandra, her husband, and their two children; his son, Julian; his mother; his sister; his two brothers, and their respective wives; his seven nieces and nephews, and their spouses and children; and his three former wives. He was preceded in death by his son, Korvus; and his father, Robert.
A private interment was held at Tulocay Cemetery in Napa, Calif. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for late October 2024, in Angels Camp.
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Friend
5 Entries
Sharon Friend, sister
August 30, 2024
Thank you to his friends, and former neighbors, who commented about our Rob. It means so much to our family. We were hoping some of his friends from Marion would see this posting. We miss him so much.
Cher and Walt Howland
August 30, 2024
We think of you always Rob love and Blessings Cher and Walt
Deloris Dutoi
August 28, 2024
We were working on our sophomore float behind Paul Bock's house. Remember the teal colored flower/pom poms? Rob roared up on his motorcycle. It was one of the coolest things I'd ever seen. I think his first spark of creativity and ingenuity was the Cornucopia. It was wonderful. I will remember him with fondness. Best wishes on your next journey, Rob.
Deloris Dutoi
Marian Class of '71
Carol Winther Beehler
August 28, 2024
So sorry to hear of Rob's passing as we last saw him at our Marian (Mishawaka, IN) high school reunion. Rob was a great person and very versatile - He also went to St. Joe Grade School with us as I am sure many will recall - I remember his school years living just a couple blocks from the school and as we walked he would join us. That would have been in the early 60's before high school. I pray that your family sees many messages from us that grew up in Mishawaka.
Will remember Rob and his family in our prayers. Respectfully,
Carol (Winther) Beehler
'71 Marian High School
Rick Kalil
August 27, 2024
I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. Rob was one of about 12 of us in our class that would have been considered Hippies in the 60's-70's. We looked for the greater good and tried to make change and back the right causes. Rob never lost that sense of where we came from and what was in our soul. We reconnected at our 50th class reunion and it felt like we were 17 again. People kept asking if we were related (we are not) but when it came time for the class picture Rob grabbed me and said "come on... we have to stand next to each other". We slid into the back row behind another buddy and I am so glad that we did. It is sad to think that he is no longer with us in the physical form but I know that his spirit and that smile will stay with all of us forever. My deepest condolences go out to the family and friends.
Rick Kalil - Marian HS Class of 71'
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