Donald Freeman

Donald Leroy Freeman, age 84, passed away on March 17, 2014 at Henry County Hospital. He was born on November 7, 1929 to Lynn Owen Freeman and Frances A. (Burrell) Freeman in South Haven, Michigan. He began his teaching career in Vestaburg, Michigan in 1951, and then continued his teaching as an Industrial Arts teacher in Napoleon City Schools in 1955, retiring in 1983. Donald married his wife, Janet (Dykstra) Freeman in 1950, and together they enjoyed traveling and camping. Don also loved to garden, working on craft and woodworking projects, bowling and golfing. He was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, and also the Lions Club. Those who knew him best will always remember him as a “pure gentleman”.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Lynn and Frances Freeman; and granddaughter, Laura Maxcy. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Janet Freeman; children, Cheri Atkinson of Napoleon , John (Judie) Freeman of Powell, Ohio, Linda (Jim) Maxcy of Napoleon, and Jim (Laura) Freeman of Michigan; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; and brother, Duane (Joyce) Freeman of Arizona.

Friends are invited to visit from 2pm to 8pm on Friday, March 21, 2014 at Walker Mortuary in Napoleon. Visitation will continue at 9am on Saturday, March 22, at the mortuary, until the time of Funeral Services at 10am. The family requests memorial donations be made to: St. Paul United Methodist Church Napoleon, or Napoleon Lutheran Nursing and Rehab Center, Lutheran Home Society or a Charity of the Donors Choice.