Lester Alen Friend, 79, of Galesburg, Illinois, died suddenly, Sunday, December 3, 2023, at home.
Les was born September 23, 1944, in Joliet, Illinois, to Louis L. and Irene (Krall) Friend. Shortly after high school, Les began working in baggage for Burlington Northern Railroad. His career spanned 40 years, retiring in 2004 as a clerk for BNSF. On June 7, 1997 Les married Helen J. Arnold in Galesburg.
Les is survived by his wife, Helen of Galesburg; two daughters, Tammy (Joel) Ferguson of Indianapolis, Indiana and Lori (Brian) Elliott of Canton, Illinois; four grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and a special little girl, Addison Painter. Les is also survived by one brother, Ronnie (Linda) Friend of Galesburg; and four sisters, Karen (Les) Baker, Nina (Stephen) Smith, Debbie (Dave) Marty, and Monica (the late Bob) Inness all of Galesburg. Along with his parents, Les was preceded in death by his son, Todd on July 28, 2013; one brother, Louie Friend; and one sister, Sandy Waters.
Les enjoyed spending time tending to his yard and feeding squirrels. A good road trip always brought joy as well as spending time with friends. An avid sports fan, Les rooted for the Green Bay Packers and the St. Louis Cardinals.
Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be directed to Knox County Humane Society or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
