Stephen “Steve” D. Friend, 62, of Delphos, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2022, at The Cleveland Clinic after a long battle with COVID complications since 2020. He was born May 16, 1960, in Van Wert, OH, to Charles and Eileen (Kemper) Friend, who preceded him in death. Steve was united in marriage to Ellen L. Friend (Martin) on March 21, 1988, who preceded him in death on October 10, 2020.

He is survived by two daughters, Nichole (Jay) Friend and Kayla (Caleb) Smith, both of Delphos; a grandson, Elliot, and a soon-to-be granddaughter on the way; a brother, Chris Friend of Lima; and three sisters-in-law, Laura (Mike) Sawmiller of Spencerville, Lisa (Lyle) Leis of Lima, and Mary Short of Van Wert.

Steve is also preceded in death by his sister, Dolores Friend; brothers-in-law, Jim, Dean, and Phil Martin; and sister-in-law, Bonnie Friend.

Steve graduated from Delphos St. John’s in 1978. He was a proud father of his daughters and supported them in every way he could. Steve devoted 42 years of his life working at Unverferth Manufacturing in Kalida, OH, retiring early due to COVID complications in 2020. He was a member of Delphos St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and Delphos Eagles Aerie #471. Steve enjoyed spending time with family and friends and had a passion for woodworking. He was also an avid Notre Dame fan.

A Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 16, 2022, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the St. John Cemetery. Visitation will be at Harter & Schier Funeral Home on Thursday, December 15, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and one hour before the funeral service on Friday. A Parish Wake Service will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, also.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Steve’s grandchildren, whom he would love dearly.