TITLE: In memory of Keith Everest Friend.

SUMMARY: In memory of Keith Everest Friend.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The certain knowledge of a life well lived may temper the profound loss felt by the loved ones of Keith Everest Friend of Grapevine, who passed away on November 8, 2014, at the age of 48; and WHEREAS, Born to Pat and Julie Friend on September 8, 1966, Keith Friend graduated from L. D. Bell High School in Hurst and went on to attend Texas State University in San Marcos; he married Lori, his high school sweetheart, on July 8, 1989, and they settled in Grapevine, where they raised their children, Amber and Andrew; and WHEREAS, Mr. Friend was a longtime employee of IBM; he was also an active volunteer scout leader and a committee member with Boy Scout Troop 905 in Colleyville, and he was a former den leader for Cub Scout Pack 817 in Grapevine; he encouraged his young charges to participate in all aspects of the Boy Scout life and motivated them to set and achieve personal goals, and through his example, he showed them how to be a caring friend and a dedicated leader; even as he battled cancer during the last six and a half years of his life, he maintained a positive attitude and continued to be involved in scouting activities; and WHEREAS, In addition to his volunteer work with the Boy Scouts, Mr. Friend enjoyed playing the guitar and sharing his musical knowledge with beginning players; he also worked with the youth at his church for many years, and he served as a compassionate mentor to fellow cancer patients, lending them a sympathetic ear and reminding them that they were not alone in their struggles; he was unfailingly generous with his time, but most of all, he treasured the moments he spent with his loved ones, whose days were made brighter by his warmth, humor, and affection; and WHEREAS, Although his days on this earth were far too few, Keith Friend left an indelible mark on the lives of many, and his devotion to his family and to the youth of his community will forever inspire all who had the good fortune to know him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Keith Everest Friend and extend sincere condolences to the members of his family: his wife, Lori Friend; his children, Amber and Andrew Friend; his parents, Julie Mason and Pat Friend; his sister, Elaine Christine Lincoln; and his other relatives, his scout family, and all who mourn his passing; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Keith Friend. Nelson President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 4, 2015, by a rising vote.