The Family of Ralph Friend Extends His Legacy with a New Gift of Nearly $250,000

The Friend family’s commitment to philanthropy began with Ralph Friend, whose life of service and dedication to his community laid the groundwork for the family’s legacy. “Ralph was always driven by a desire to help others, especially students who didn’t have the financial means to pursue their dreams,” said Joan Friend, Ralph’s niece.

Ralph’s story is one of sacrifice, resilience and a deep belief in the power of education. Although Ralph never completed a college degree — due to his responsibilities within the family business — he placed a very high value on education. He believed that education should be accessible to all, regardless of financial background. His early life in South Dakota, shaped by the challenges of his mother’s tuberculosis, taught him the importance of perseverance and giving back.

Ralph’s journey took him to World War II, where he served as a pilot instructor. Despite his dreams of flying, he put his ambitions on hold to help his family run their business. His community-minded spirit grew stronger over time, and in the 1980s, after closing the family store, Ralph chose to support students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend college. A devout Catholic, Ralph established a scholarship fund to provide financial relief for students pursuing a higher education degree at Regis. 

Ralph died in 2016 at the age of 94. In his honor, and with the proceeds from the sale of Ralph’s property, Joan and her cousins established an endowment through the family’s foundation. This fall, they amplified their giving with a new pledge of nearly $250,000 that provides a student with a four-year scholarship to attend Regis. This generous gift ensures that the recipient will not have to worry about tuition or housing costs, allowing the student to focus on their studies. “When Ralph passed, we knew we had to carry on his work. He would be so proud to see these students thriving, knowing they didn’t have to worry about how to pay for their education,” said Joan. 

Over the years, the scholarship has changed the lives of many students. Ralph had the opportunity to meet some of them through the years. The family collects letters from students who have written to share their gratitude and the many ways in which the scholarship had a lasting impact on their education and lives. “It’s moments like that — when a student comes back to say thank you — that show us just how meaningful this scholarship is. Ralph would have been so proud to see the lives he helped shape,” said Joan.

We are deeply grateful to Ralph for his enduring friendship and generous support of Regis and our students. His efforts have planted a seed of ongoing connection, inspiring and empowering the next generation to thrive.