FRIEND, Jesse Vern - b. July 9, 1912 - d. March 15, 2014

[patyrn]

Jesse Vern Friend of Howard, Kansas, known to all as Vern, passed away Saturday, March 15, 2014 at his daughter's home in Winfield, Kansas at the age of 101.  He was born July 9, 1912 in rural Elk County, Kansas, the son of Wiley Michael and Gertrude (Richardson) Friend.

On August 4, 1932, Vern was united in marriage to Florence Louise Armstrong in Eureka, Kansas.  Together they lived their lives farming in Elk County until retiring in 1976 when they bought property and moved into the city of Howard in 1977.  Vern was an avid fisherman and enjoyed hitting some of the local water holes and watersheds in the area.  In his 70s, he bought a 10-speed bicycle and rode it many times from Howard to Severy and Moline.  Along with his sister, Della, they provided entertainment at family reunions, schools, nursing homes, and senior centers.

Vern is survived by two sons, Melvin Friend of Elk Falls, Kansas and Harold Friend of Winfield, Kansas; one daughter, Louise Havens of Winfield, Kansas; 12 grandchildren; and numerous great and great-great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Florence; his daughter, Phyllis Barber; his son, Arthur Friend; his brother, Forest; and three sisters, Ethel Criger, Violet Hebb, and Della Cox. 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, Kansas with Pastor Robin Haines officiating.  Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to West Elk High School Music Department of Howard High School Alumni Association and may be left with the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com.  Arrangements are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)