Mary Jane Freeman

Mary Freeman, age 69, passed away in her Lemon Grove home on Saturday, February 13, 2016.

Mary was born January 18, 1947 in Berkeley, CA to Joseph Christopher Cordonier, Jr and Emma Louise Kibler. Her father Joe was a career Navy sailor, following orders and taking the family to many states across the U.S, with her mother Louise making her career as a nurse. When Mary was in Junior High, Joe's final orders brought him to San Diego where the family resided in Chula Vista. By this time, the family was 7 members strong. The oldest, Ellen Stiles and partner Randy Parks, currently live in La Mesa, CA. The second daughter, Nora Koenig and husband Uli live in Anaheim, CA. Mary was the middle child. Her brother Joseph Cordonier III (passed 2015) and wife Donna, as well as Thomas Cordonier and wife Margaret live in Tulelake, CA. Mary graduated in 1964 from Hilltop High School and attended Southwestern College. She began work in the dental field, both assisting and office work. Her career spanned over 40 years in the dental industry. Mary retired in 2012 and enjoyed the endless hours with her family and quiet time at home.

In 1968, Mary wed Dean Freeman of Lemon Grove. During their 26 year marriage, they went on to have 2 daughters: Amanda Louise Freeman, living in Lemon Grove with her children, and Deana Marie Freeman, living in La Mesa with her partner Nathan Putman. In 2004, Mary became a grandmother to Alexandria Michelle and in 2005 to Brandon Guinness.

Mary was well know to do what she wanted when she wanted and pretty much how she wanted. Her interests included a great love and appreciation for animals, making crafts, including decorative eggs, painting, and crochet, and bowling and racquetball in her earlier years. She greatly enjoyed traveling (just not the flying part) and adored people watching. She found great pleasure in talking to people and telling stories. She had recently become addicted to her iPad and could be heard yelling "YES" as she leveled up in her favorite games. She was an active member in fundraising for Children's Hospital Auxiliary and supported MADD and Greenpeace.

Mary's uplifting laugh and calm voice, as well as her free-spirit heart, will always be cherished.

In honor of her lifetime request, the family has chosen cremation with no formal services. The immediate family will be celebrating and remembering her privately.