Battalion Chief
Deceased:
April 15, 2014
Appointed:
1/2/1962
Pensioned: Service – 07/08/1984 – Battalion 14B
Donations:
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, PLEASE SEND DONATIONS TO:
Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund
815 Colorado Blvd, 4th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I was so sorry to hear about Chief Friend. He was a drill tower captain when I was in the drill tower at 89’s in Jan 76. I will always remember him. He picked me out of all those recruits and although he tried to be the tough guy I knew he was truly trying to help out the recruits. We lost 100 out of 160 recruits. Only 60 graduated. Chief Friend was one of the captains that helped me make it through, I am now retired and have enjoyed a great career and life. I have enjoyed everything that a person can give to his wife and family. I thank God for people like Chief Friend for that. I will never forget him.
I got a 12 hour pm SOD day at 4’s as a rookie, and as I walked in the door the Task Force caught a run. I jumped on the rig not realizing I didn’t get my relief’s face piece. At this point I thought for sure I was going to be fired. I told Captain Friend and he said don’t worry I’ll give you mine if we get something. From that point on in my career Captain Friend was golden. I also had the pleasure to work with him at OCD and I drove him on SOD days when he was a chief. He was an outstanding person. I am proud to have known him.
Having lived in Maryland beginning in 1993, visits with my Dad were few and far between. Since then, I have given my Dad five grandson’s and a granddaughter. My Dad wasn’t always easy to be around but as I realized parenthood myself, I found a respect that allowed me to connect with my Dad on a whole different level. I reflected on the tough “lessons” I thought he was teaching me as a child and can see how he showed his love – differently- but nonetheless, true. I will miss his influence and find peace in knowing that he is with my son Peter and still looking out for me!
Most of my childhood memories include that red, blue and green calendars. My Dad loved LAPD and his many friends. It was a staple over the years that brought him a lot of pleasure.
Gratitude to LAPD for the gift of remembering my Dad!
Lisa Friend Krall