BLOOMINGTON

Rodney Friend, 71, of Bloomington, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Rodney was born on May 22,1953 in Jacksonville, Florida, to Spencer and Frances Friend. The family moved to Seymour, Indiana soon after his birth. Rodney married his high school sweetheart Jodie Speckner Friend in 1972. After being a Bloomington business owner for many years, Rodney pursued his passions for aviation (earning his IFR rating) and photography with enthusiasm and great joy. Rodney believed people were capable of doing hard things and he tried something new and challenging every day, while encouraging his loved ones to do the same. Ever curious and a lifelong learner, Rodney was often found researching various topics and sharing his newfound knowledge with others. He will be deeply missed.

Survived by his spouse of 52 years, Jodie Friend; siblings Raymond (Neila) Friend, Joyce (Bill) Chasteen, and Keith (Deb) Friend; sisters-in law Sue Koop, Julie (Kenny) Klein and brother-in-law Mike (Maryse) Speckner; beloved nieces and nephews and their families, Andy (Ashley Howell) Koop, Jon (Sarah) Koop, Abby Koop (Matt Caldie), Eric (Lauren) Speckner, Vince Speckner, Kyler (Laine) Klein, Kelsi Klein, Victor (Carolyn) Friend, Mark (Lee Ann) Friend, Brian Friend, and Jodi (Shane) Friend. Jodi gave Rodney the tremendous gift of life by donating a kidney to him ten years ago. He was predeceased by his parents and nephews Vincent Chasteen and Darian Chasteen and brother-in-law Warren Koop.

There will be no services at this time. A remembrance celebration will be held at a later date.

Memorial gifts may be made to the IU Transplant Surgery Research Fund at https://give.myiu.org/iu-indianapolis/I380010078.html.

Allen Funeral Home and Crematory have been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with family and friends at www.allencares.com.