Bill Friend

Billy Lee Friend passed away in his home in Garden City, Missouri on October 25th at the age of 81 with his significant other by his side. Bill was born on March 20th, 1942.

In Powersite, a little tourist town by Branson Missouri. Bill was one of the last real cowboys whose work ethic was apparent to all who knew him. His natural passions for all things horses, the great outdoors, and the Cowboy way of life paved the way to Bill becoming an avid well respected All-Around Horseman with many talents. Bill was known for his ability of reading and handling cattle, roping, riding colts, training cutting horse, along with his sharp ability and vision to make improvements everywhere he went. It was Bill's hard work, determination, and drive that took him from a Fishing Guide at Table Rock, to Rodeo- par-taking in all events, then going on to experience true Ranch life throughout the United States. He worked at several ranches riding colts, going out with the Wagon on fall round-up, worked in several different Cow Camps, Roping, shoeing horses, and training & showing Cutting Horses. Bill also made a name for himself when he excelled in training & showing some of the Best All-Around horses winning in Halter, Western Pleasure, Reining, Roping, and Cutting classes. Bill was also a very good welder and enjoyed fixing & building things. He had his own Horse Training facility in Elgin Texas which he was very proud of. Had a great sense of humor, loved to joke around, enjoyed playing dominos & cards with the locals at the VFW.

"Cowboy Bill" is one the last of a dying breed, proud, kind, thoughtful, always helping and encouraging others, while living life to its fullest. He will be deeply missed and forever in our heart.

Bill is survived by his Best Friend, Significant Other Shelly Friesen, a Beloved Daughter Tonya Friend, and several loving close Friends. Bill is preceded in death by his parents Troy and Mable Raines Friend, both his sisters Carlita Anderson and Karen Maggard, and close Friends he considered family: Olan Hightower, of Chappell TX, Dr Jim Meyers of Watertown IN, Don Peters of Greensburg IN.

A Celebration of life will be held on Nov 18th, 2023 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm at the house.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made in Bill's name in support of the National Youth Cutting Horse Association.

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NCHA Foundation

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Fort Worth TX 76107