Eric Friend

He was born in Detroit, the second son of the late George and Sally Friend.

He is survived by his son Henry, brother Michael of Marquette, and sister Margie Stockero of Sanford, MI.

He was proceeded in death by his wife Kay, sisters Georgina and Susan and brother Dan.

He graduated from Wayne Memorial High School in 1968, and attended NMU studying Art. He rented a room in the home of Mrs. Rushton, a member of the “Saturday Afternoon Painters,” offering her guidance from his painting class. That summer she traveled to Spain to take painting classes from Picasso. Upon her return she shared that she had questioned Mr. Picasso’s technique as it was not what her painting teacher Eric Friend had taught her. Eric was shocked!

Eric was employed by Tasson Distributors for many years, played slow pitch softball, and was an avid Lions and Tigers fan. Eric loved the UP.

Honoring the families wishes a celebration of life will be held at a later date. The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com