Donald Patrick Friend

Donald Patrick Friend, age 84, of Allen, Texas, passed away May 6, 2026. He was born on May 22, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, to George A. and Mary Ellen (McCulloch) Friend.

Don attended Detroit Jesuit High School and went on to the University of Detroit, where he earned a degree in Business and Finance. It was during his early years in Detroit that he met the love of his life, Ruth Ann Wysocki. The two were married on October 19, 1963, and together built a life centered on faith, family, and community. As they began raising their family, Don’s steady dedication to both his career and his role as a husband and father laid the foundation for a life defined by commitment and care.

Don enjoyed a long and successful career with Burroughs Corporation, later Unisys, where he worked for 42 years in a variety of roles before retiring. His work ethic, leadership, and genuine interest in people extended beyond the workplace. While living in Pennsylvania from 1989 to 2002, he led an international employee program, reflecting his passion for mentoring others and helping them grow both professionally and personally.

In 1977, Don moved his family to Plano, Texas, where his passion for sports, especially high school football became one of the defining joys of his life. A former left-handed pitcher in high school, he remained a lifelong sports enthusiast. His love for high school football began in 1964, when he started scouting for Lutheran West High School in Detroit under the coaching of one of his closest friends.

After settling in Plano, Don quickly became a dedicated supporter of Plano Wildcat football, proudly cheering the team on through multiple state championship seasons. He was a devoted season ticket holder for 35 years and a founding member of the Plano Wildcat Committee. Even during the years, he and Ruth lived in Pennsylvania, Don faithfully kept those season tickets, often traveling back to Texas for key games.

Don’s passion for sports extended to his family and community. He coached his daughters’ softball and soccer teams, instilling in his children the values of teamwork, dedication, and perseverance. He had a natural gift for mentoring young people, always willing to offer guidance, encouragement, and support, whether on the field, in the workplace, or through his church.

A devoted member of St. Jude Catholic Church, Don lived his faith through service. He contributed in many ways, including serving as an altar server mentor, helping introduce the chalice program, working as a money counter, and co-founding the Clergy Appreciation Dinner. As a member of the Knights of Columbus, he served as Grand Knight and numerous other leadership roles. In recognition of his dedication, he was among the first recipients of the Bishop’s Service Award. His lasting impact was further honored through the Knights establishment of the Don Friend Service Award.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Ruth, and their four children: Maureen (Missy) Friend (Mark) of Allen, Texas; Mary Hendrix (Greg) of Allen, Texas; Susie Graham of Plano, Texas; and Greg Friend of The Colony, Texas. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Chad Centorbi (Amanda), Grant Hendrix (Kristyn), Callie Lowrey (Cayden), Hannah Gaunce, Connor Graham, Faith Hendrix, Noah Friend, and Christian Friend and two great grandchildren, Emma and Charley Centorbi, all of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his three younger brothers: George “Bud” Friend (Carol) of Monroe, Connecticut; Gary Friend of Sarasota, Florida; and Greg Friend (Beth) of Alger, Michigan, as well as many nephews, nieces and cherished cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Ellen and George.

A rosary and visitation will be held at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 21, 2026, at St. Jude Catholic Church.

A funeral mass and inurnment will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 22, 2026, at St. Jude Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made “In memory of Don Friend” to:

Alzheimer’s Association

St. Jude Knights of Columbus Council 11293 for their wheelchair ministry

St. Jude Bereavement Ministry