Dennis Craig Friel

Dennis Craig Friel, age 73, husband of Jane Friel, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Saint Joseph Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. He was born on December 10, 1951, to the late Francis Dudley Friel and the late Violet Marie Hall Maahs. Dennis was the Vice President of Tebco of Kentucky, Inc., where he poured his heart into his work, showcasing an extensive knowledge of truck equipment and a genuine love for the incredible people he worked alongside. He was a devoted Christian and a respected member of Stanton Baptist Church, where he served diligently as the Treasurer. In addition to his church involvement, Dennis was an active member in various organizations, including the Kentucky Colonels, the Red River Charter of the Fraternal Order of Police, and the National Truck Equipment Association. He held the position of Chairman on the Powell County Republican Party Fundraising Sub-Committee and was a past President of the Beechfork Golf Course, where his leadership left a lasting impact. Dennis valued being a husband, father, and grandfather, finding his greatest joy in the love he shared with his family. He was a continual source of unwavering support, from passionately cheering for his kids in their diverse sports endeavors when they were young, to watching them thrive in adulthood, always present to uplift and encourage them. Dennis embodied the spirit of hard work, consistently striving to leave every place better than he found it. He found solace and thrill in pheasant hunting, enjoyed the challenge of a good golf game, and had a diverse taste in music that spanned various genres. Movie nights were a treasured pastime, and he delighted in discovering exceptional restaurants during vacations or golfing trips, always eager to share good food with loved ones. A larger-than-life personality, Dennis had a gift for connecting with others, never meeting a stranger. He thrived on conversation and sought to uplift his community, driven by a desire to see it flourish. Among all his passions, he shared a special bond with his dog, Rocky, who brought yet another layer of joy to his vibrant life. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two sons: Hunter Craig Friel of Somerset, and Christopher Chase Friel of Stanton; one brother, Robert L. (Eva June) Friel of Louisville; one grandson, Atlas Chase Friel; one niece, Melanie (J.R.) Dakin of Glasgow; and one nephew, Jason Friel of Jeffersonville, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services, officiated by Brother Travis Drake, will be held immediately following visitation at 1:00 P.M. Burial will be held at Bowen Cemetery in Bowen with J.R. Dakin, Jansen Dakin, Jason Friel, Myles Ashley, Hunter Craig Friel, and Christopher Chase Friel serving as active pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Gary and Candy Thompson, George and Pam Drake, Larry and Debbie Drake, Everett "Junebug" Todd, Monroe Jones, Pete Thomas, Darrell Billings, Dustin Billings, Alan Roberts II, Danny Rogers, Robert and Lori Parker, and members of the Stanton Baptist Church and the Powell County Republican Party. The family has requested donations to Stanton Baptist Church in lieu of flowers. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.