JOHN "JAKE" FRIEND
December 12, 1944
FRIEND
JOHN "JAKE"
John "Jake" Friend of Murrysville, lovingly known to many as Jake or Jack, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and listening to a few of his favorite songs. Born on December 12, 1944, to Elsie Jessell and Edgar "Lefty" Friend, Jake lived a life defined by hard work, service, loyalty, and devotion to those he loved most.
Jake grew up in the close-knit community of Swissvale, Pennsylvania, where he formed many lifelong friendships and memories. Following high school, he proudly served his country in the Vietnam War, carrying with him the quiet strength, resilience, and sense of duty that would shape the rest of his life.
After returning home, Jake built a life centered around family and hard work. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Phyllis, beginning a marriage filled with partnership, commitment, and countless shared memories that spanned nearly six decades. Together, they raised three children — Katie, Brian, and John — who were the pride and joy of his life.
Jake went on to establish his own appliance repair business, where he became known for his strong work ethic, honesty, and ability to fix just about anything. Through years of dedicated service, he built lasting relationships with customers who appreciated not only his skill, but also his kindness and dependable nature.
Later in life, Jake and Phyllis made their home in Harrison City, Pennsylvania, where he enjoyed the quieter pace of life while remaining deeply connected to his family and friends. Jake loved people, all kinds of music, especially the Oldies, cruising in his 1968 Firebird, and Florida in the winter.
Jake will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father, grandfather, veteran, businessman, brother, and friend. He was a steady presence — someone who believed in showing up, working hard, and taking care of the people around him. His legacy lives on through the family he loved deeply and the countless lives he touched throughout the years.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis Martoni Friend; his children, Katie, Brian Friend and his wife, Kati, and John Friend; his cherished grandchildren, Ashley and Alison; his siblings, Robert, Carol, and Jim; along with extended family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
His family and friends will love him Forever and Ever, Amen.
Funeral services were handled by the THOMAS L. NIED FUNERAL HOME, INC., 7441 Washington Street, Swissvale. Entombment took place in the Braddock Catholic Cemetery with Military Honors.
www.niedfuneralhome.com
Send Flowers: When Is the Ordering Deadline?
ANY DAY OF THE WEEK
Order any time up till the day before
MON-FRI Order by 2:00PM
SAT & SUN Order by noon
TUES-SAT
Order by 3:00PM
The day before
SAT & SUN Order by Saturday
Note: These are general guidelines; some florists may not be able to operate within these timelines. During peak periods such as Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day and most holidays, florists are not always able to keep up to demand. Tribute will contact you if there are any issues.
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Send Flowers: When Is the Ordering Deadline?
ANY DAY OF THE WEEK
Order any time up till the day before
MON-FRI Order by 2:00PM
SAT & SUN Order by noon
TUES-SAT
Order by 3:00PM
The day before
SAT & SUN Order by Saturday
Note: These are general guidelines; some florists may not be able to operate within these timelines. During peak periods such as Valentine’s Day, Memorial Day and most holidays, florists are not always able to keep up to demand. Tribute will contact you if there are any issues.
Plant a tree: How does it work
When your purchase is complete, a post will be made on the tribute wall of the deceased signifying the planting of a memorial tree.
An official certificate recognizing your purchase will be included with your email receipt. You can then forward the email to the family or print it and give it to them personally.
After an order is placed, our forestry partners will plant the tree in the area of greatest need (nearest the funeral home), according to the planting schedule for the year.
Due to seasonal conditions, the tree planting takes place during the spring and summer.
Tree Planting Timeline
Orders placed in:
January - May
Planting will take place in Spring or Summer of the same year.
June - December
Planting will take place in Spring of the following year.
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