Ralph I'm new also and the best advice I have from anyone is to find a club or just a rc flying field and get some advice from the people who have some experience.
Bring the plane and have someone look it over. Lots of nice people who will help you and point out all the things you might need to get started.
I'm currently building a trainer (kinda the first build if you don't count those Guillows kits) and I'm hoping to get it in the air this year... if all goes well.

Sorry to hear about your friend but the best thing you can do in his memory is to get in touch with a club and find an instructor. That way when it successfully flies, you can celebrate the moment.