Munster High School Football (V)

In Memory of Mr. John Friend

By Mike Schultz | Jun 9, 2024 9:55 AM

In Memory of Mr. John Friend On June 7, 2024, the School Town of Munster experienced the loss of a great man, Mr. John Friend, at the age of 89. Mr. Friend dedicated 50 consecutive years to the Munster school system, serving as a football and basketball coach, athletic director, and later on the school board and park board. Mr. Friend was Munster's first varsity football coach, leading the program from 1964 to 1979 with an impressive 119-32 record. Under his leadership, the team won seven out of ten Lake Suburban Conference titles, had eight teams ranked in the state's top 10, and he coached in the first North-South All-Star Game. Additionally, he served as the head basketball coach at Munster from 1964 to 1966. His achievements were recognized when he was inducted into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame on December 13, 1987, and the Munster High School Hall of Fame. John Friend's dedication and compassion touched many lives, and his loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the Friend family during this difficult time. Please keep the family, friends, past players, and students of Mr. Friend in your thoughts and prayers. Once a Mustang, Always a Mustang! #wearemunster