Karl A. Friend
(Cully-Friend)
Karl A. Friend, 72, of Perrysburg, OH passed away peacefully at Hospice of Northwest Ohio on July, 6, 2014 following a courageous battle with liver cancer. Born on December 30, 1941 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Harold A. and Mildred D. (Cully) Friend, Karl grew up in Sylvania, Ohio and was a graduate of the last class from Burnham High School in 1960. He received his bachelor's degree in history and earth science in 1965 from B.G.S.U. He retired in 2002 from Bowling Green City Schools, after 35 years of teaching in the junior high/middle school as an earth science and history teacher. Karl was honored four times as Who's Who Among America's Teachers and was named a Jennings Scholar. The impact he made on his students will be lifelong.
Karl had many affiliations. He was a Life Loyal Tau with the Ohio Epsilon Kappa Chapter of Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. He was a member of the Ohio Historical Society/History Connection, and U.S. Cavalry Assoc., and Morgan's Men Assoc. He was on the Board of Trustees for Fallen Timbers Battlefield Preservation Commission, Greater Toledo Civil War Roundtable, and Friend Family Association of America, Inc. He was also the vice president and past treasurer of the Fort Meigs History Military Roundtable and a charter/benefactor member of the Friends and Descendants of Johnson's Island Civil War Prison.
Karl's love of learning and interest in history led him to be an avid informant for many individuals on historical events, places and people. He was honored as a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society of Scotland.
Karl was proud of being a Boy Scout having achieved the award of Eagle Scout. Additionally, Karl had a passion for fast cars especially the Corvette. Karl attended racing school completing a five day road racing course at the School of High Performance Driving. He was as life member of the Nat'l Sports Car Club of America.
Karl was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his best friend and 20+ year companion, confidant, and love, Deborah Pirolli. He is survived by his aunt, Marvene Hardy of Monroeville, Indiana, numerous cousins, his Pirolli family, friends, and "historians." He will be missed by his special feline friend, Maxwell.
Friends will be received from 2 P.M. - 8 P.M. on Thursday, July 10th in the Witzler-Shank Funeral Home, 222 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg, OH 43551 (419-874-3133) where funeral services will be held at 10 A.M. on Friday, July 11, 2014. Graveside services will then be held at 2 P.M. Friday afternoon in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert, OH.
Deborah would like to thank the staff at the OSU Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital, Dr. Kevin Phelps and the staff at St. Luke's Family Practice, and Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their compassionate care.
Individuals wishing to make a donation are asked to consider: Fort Meigs; Fallen Timbers Battlefield Preservation Commission; or Hospice of Northwest Ohio.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
October 27, 2014
Theresa Dunn
Dear Deb, We're so sorry to hear of your loss. I didn't know Karl well, but I know he will be missed greatly. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Theresa & Terry Dunn
August 29, 2014
Joel Hoblet
I was very sorry to hear about Karl's passing. I had only recently met Karl while doing family history and met with Karl at Spiegel Grove to talk about the Bowens/McQueens/Cullys. Michelle and I had a wonderful time discussing family stories and Scottish history! He sent me a neck tie with the McQueen tartan which was so thoughtful and kind. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of such a great loss.
August 7, 2014
Dear Debbie: Our family just learned of Karl's passing. We were all so very sad and continue to keep you in our thoughts. God bless you and may you find comfort in all these comments of your friends and loved ones. Bob and Mary Hertzfeld
August 3, 2014
Deborah,
It has taken me some time to write about Karl as he was my best friend from Cub Scouts through Eagle Scout.
I noted 56 people had signed his guest book and I read every message carefully.
As a teacher, I truly enjoyed the memories of his classmates. God bless you every day, Steven Abell, Arlington, Texas
July 31, 2014
Cindy Donbrosky - Yankee Doodle Flag
I am so very sorry to find that Karl has passed away. I'm the "flag girl from Newark" at Yankee Doodle Flag and Karl has been my customer for years. He always would chat with me about my family genealogy and when he called said "is this the girl from Newark" He loved his miniature flags of different countries and his flag lapel pins. I always tried to stock his favorite countries. He gave me numerous history lessons and told me more about the flags than I knew already.
July 16, 2014
JOHN Calgie
KARL SENT ME A 54MM METAL FIGURE OF GENERAL DANIEL SICKLES MY NICK NAME IN THE CLUB IT WILL BE WITH ME FOREVER JUST AS HE WILL BE JOHN C CALGIE G.T.C.W.R.T.
July 15, 2014
Janelle Tatro
Mr. Friend was a wonderful teacher, one of my favorites for sure. Starting out the day with the TV guide, he had his own way of doing things and touched so many lives. Reading the condolences, it seems he was a lot of peoples favorite teacher. RIP Mr. Friend.....
July 13, 2014
Dear Deborah,
I am so sorry for your loss.I was looking forward to spending time with you and Karl at the September Gathering of the FFAA. Karl will be greatly missed by FFAA. God bless you for all you meant to Karl.
Delores Shade
July 12, 2014
P Garrett
I never had the opportunity to know Karl but I most certainly appreciated his attention to Friend family research. I extend my sympathy and love to Deborah and to all his numerous extended family. One life can touch so many others in unimaginable ways. Sincerely, PGarrett
July 12, 2014
Todd Mercer
Mr. Friend was one of my favorite teachers in Junior High. I had the pleasure of being one of his students in the mid '70s. Until reading his Obituary, I had forgotten his passion for Corvettes. Until reading the guestbook, I'd forgotten it was he who made misbehaving students stand with their nose in a small circle on the chalkboard (but I well remembered the the technique). He was an excellent teacher and by way of behavior, an excellent mentor. I thoroughly enjoyed learning History in his class, which may have helped to keep it interesting in all future classes as well.
A fine man and teacher, the world is a much better place because he walked among us for a lifetime. He is, and will be, missed. Rest in Peace, Mr. Friend.
July 12, 2014
Dear Deborah,
I was saddened to hear of your loss. Please know how very sorry I am.
With deepest sympathy,
Kathy Weltin
July 11, 2014
Donna Friend
I also got to know Karl through being on the board of The Friend Family Association of America. He had a great personality and so very in tune with history and getting to know everyone. Gary and I would like send our condolences to you Deb and to the family.
Blessings to you,
July 11, 2014
Mona Wellington
My condolences to the family... Sending my love
Mona Lisa
July 11, 2014
Jamie Young
Condolences to Mr. Friend's family and friends. He was also one of my all time favorite teachers, 8th grade American history is a great memory because of him almost 40 years ago. I had forgotten about his corvette but am smiling now thinking about how cool we all thought he was in that car.
July 10, 2014
Rebecca Duckro
I taught with Karl many years ago at BGJH. He always made time to talk with me if I needed to discuss something regarding teaching or students. He was a kind person and just an all around nice guy! May God keep you close, Karl, and give comfort to those here on earth who will miss you! Becky Duckro, Hendersonville, NC
July 10, 2014
Patty Thompson
I served with Karl as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Friend Family Association of America. Karl was a most dedicated trustee with a outstanding insight of the issues of the organization.
Karl was a delight to know and I was proud to have been honored with his friendship.
Patty (Friend) Thompson
July 10, 2014
Melani Christiansen
I will miss Karl so much. He told me stories about my dad, helped me find my sense of self in later years, always enjoyed our rambling phone conversations. Love, Cousin Melanie
July 9, 2014
Anne Bowen
My mother was an aunt to Karl's mother, Mildred. They were fairly close in age for an aunt and niece, and, as a result were good friends as well. Karl and I were cousins and the same age and shared many good times together as children. I remember fondly playing in the barn at his Grandpa Cully's (my uncle's) farm, adventuring back to the "woods," and daring to climb the windmill. I loved it when they would visit us at my home in Wren and when we traveled to Sylvania to see them. In later years, we didn't see each other that much but it was always a fun time when we did. Sometimes he would "pop-in" and we would take off in one of those sports cars for Lima or even Dayton, grab a bite to eat and return home, usually quite late, or early in the a.m. Other times, we would just drive around Van Wert County and I would learn things from him that I had never heard or read about before. His passion for history and genealogy was evident as he tried to educate me on our family background during our lengthy telephone talks. I will miss him and will always treasure the times we shared. Deb, God bless you for the strength you have shown and give you comfort at this time of loss.
July 9, 2014
Natalie Ramer
Thank you for being a great uncle and historical educated person. You have left a great legacy behind and will be greatky missed. My thoughts and prayers goes out to the friends and family .
July 9, 2014
Elizabeth Clark
Mr. Friend was one of my favorite teachers. I became a teacher myself and try to entertain, listen and engage students like he did with his students. He was special.
July 9, 2014
Michelle Hardy
Karl was a very important part of our family. He will be greatly missed by all. He paid special attention to his Aunt Marvene and her family.
July 9, 2014
Marilynda Henderson
Mr. Friend was about the finest teacher ever. He had the ability to spark interest. One of the finest things he ever wrote on one of my tests was: You can do better. And after that I made A's in his class. I will always remember his sense of humor. Misbehaving students had to stand with their noses in a circle drawn on the chalkboard. We all loved him. I copied his form of printing in all capital letters and remember him to this day. I was in his Earth Science class in 1967. My sincere condolences to his loved ones.
July 9, 2014
Melanie Christiansen
I will miss you cousin . . . our long rambling phone conversations, special holidays together, and the way you were always there for your Connie-bear for all of the important milestones. There will never be another best cousin like you. Love and miss you so much already . . .
July 9, 2014
Karen and Ken Christiansen
Carl joined us for many holiday meals in Defiance. He always livened up the table talk and made everyone feel at home. We loved seeing him past summers in Perrysburg and will miss him. Our sympathy to Deb and all in the family who are also missing him.
July 9, 2014
Deb - I am so sorry for your loss and sending my love and prayers to you.
July 9, 2014
Kimberly Lundy
July 8, 2014
Debbie Lundy
I am sorry for the loss. Mr. Friend was an awesome teacher. He treated everyone with integrity and humor (which is hard to achieve, but he did it). He made me like history. May God watch over Mr. Friend's loved ones during this time.
July 8, 2014
Rosie Zamarripa
Mr Friend wasn't one of my Jr high teachers (graduated in 79) but I did have him for study hall. He was a very kind, friendly man, took the time to really listen to what you had to say, even if it was something way out there. He made a big impression on me and he well always be missed and thought of an awesome teacher! RIP Karl Friend,
July 8, 2014
I will remember Mr. Friend as a wonderful teacher...my thoughts and prayers for his family...Sherry Scovell-Fitch. BGHS '86
July 8, 2014
Betty Lloyd
The Greater Toledo Civil War Roundtable has lost a special friend. You could always count on Karl to get the discussion going. He was always there when you needed a helping hand. I will miss him.
July 8, 2014
Wendy Cushnie
My thought and prayers are with the family! Mr . Friend was my BG Jr. High History teacher. ("81 or "82) I graduated from BGHS in "86 and BGSU in "91 in education and have been teaching since. Mr. Friend was one of my all time favorite teachers! In deepest sympathy, Wendy Booth Cushnie
July 8, 2014
Deborah Goodwin
So sorry for your loss Deb. I will always treasure times with you and Karl. He made me laugh and his sense of humour was wonderful. You will have lovely memories of his kindness and loyalty. And Max had a awesome friend!
July 8, 2014
Ellyn Stout
Deb, I am so sorry for your loss. Karl was a wonderful teacher and colleague! Always gave me great advice. I pray you find comfort in your memories.
July 8, 2014
Leigh Ann Columber Barton
So sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Friend will always be remembered by his many past students for his love of teaching History.
July 8, 2014
Sonia & George Getic
Deb..so sorry for your loss. We will be thinking of you this week and in the months ahead.
July 8, 2014
Richard Weckman
I'll miss seeing Carl across the road, and chatting with him about various interesting subjects. Many times Carl would bring books and info over concerning those subjects. He was a good neighbor and friend, and it won't seem the same without him. He'll very much be missed.
July 8, 2014
Shirley Lauria
Deborah, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Karl was quite a wonderful man, and I know he will be greatly missed. May the love and comfort of God be with you, his family, and his many friends.
July 8, 2014
Ann Rice
A nice man. I enjoyed his company at the GTCWRT meetings. He will be missed
July 8, 2014
Bobbi (Columber) Roberts
I am very sorry for your loss. Mr. Friend was one of my favorite teachers
July 8, 2014
Terry and Bernie Murnen
Deb and family, May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. Although no words can help to ease the loss you bear, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are very sorry for the passing of Karl. Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
July 8, 2014
Paul Sauer
Great man! Thanks for everything Karl.
July 8, 2014
Cindy Smith
Karl is a beautiful a memory you will always have. Deb wishing you peace at this difficult time. Love is never taken away, it remains with you always! Prayers and Serenity for you and your family.
July 8, 2014
Such a good man and teacher......great personality and loved by all......you will be dearly missed and always remembered......to his family my sincerest condolences through this rough time......
July 8, 2014
Karl Friend was a one of a kind, exceptional teacher. So few teachers have such a profound impact on students. He will be missed. RIP, MR. Friend. Kimme Scherer, BGHS '81.
July 8, 2014
Sal Barone
Mr. Friend was such a great teacher and was my favorite in junior high with Mrs. Warrick. We will miss you. All my love and sympathy goes to his family during this difficult time.
July 8, 2014
tim burks
Sorry for your loss. .. mr. Friend was by far my favorite teacher in jr. High. He was an inspiration to many. He will be dearly missed.
July 8, 2014
shawn smith
One of my favorite teachers ever. Just ran into him a couple weeks ago and we shared some laughs and talk. He was such an interesting man. He touched the lives of many, condolences to the family.
July 8, 2014
Tim Myers
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
July 8, 2014
Adrienne Griffin
You were a teacher that stood out to me. May The Lord hold your family in his hands and heal their hearts.
July 8, 2014
Kathy McKnight/Schuck/Warren
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of a wonderful mentor! I will always remember him with that youthful haircut and that personality that the kids all loved!I am a better person for having had known him as a student in high school.
July 8, 2014
Carrie Bowers
Sorry for your loss. He was an inspiring teacher. He was my 8th grade american history teacher. We use to talk about his "fast" car.
July 8, 2014
Deb - I am sending you my sincere sympathy; Karl was incredibly special and impacted numerous lives, including mine as well. Take care and know I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. With sympathy, Shelley Appelbaum
July 8, 2014
Anna Pessell
Deb and Family-So sorry for your loss. He had a wonderful life. Cherish all the fond memories of his time spent with you. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
July 8, 2014
Robin Eshelman
My favorite teacher. 8th grade earth science in the 70's. Every Wednesday he told us what happened on night gallery! He made earth science interesting. RIP Mr. Friend.
July 8, 2014
Lynn and Helen House
Deb - We were so sorry to learn of Karl's passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We know he is now with the Lord and will be watching over you. Love, Lynn and Helen
July 8, 2014
Shirley Oberhaus
Deb and Karl's family and friends,
God's peace and strength to you always. Karl had a big heart and touched so many lives. He shared often his longing for Beulah Land.
"There my home shall be eternal--Sweet Beulah Land"
Blessings,
July 8, 2014
Mary Lou Keckler
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
July 8, 2014
Anne Warriner
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
July 8, 2014
Rick Finch
So sorry for your loss. Karl was a great man.
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