ROBERT FREEMAN

Bob graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1954 prior to enlisting in the Army in 1958 where he trained to become a Mortuary Affairs Specialist before being promoted to Private First Class. He earned a Good Conduct medal and was extremely proud of his service, especially being stationed at Fort Lee, Virginia, and working in Arlington National Cemetery aiding in the preparation of U.S.-honored veterans and war heroes for their final interment.

He retired with 35 years of service from TIMET in Toronto, (Manipulator Operator in the Forge shop) providing tirelessly for his family while never missing special commitments like piano recitals, softball games (where he served as assistant coach), marching band outings, family vacations, college events and many more.

He married the love of his life, Sherita “Sherry” Craig, in 1967, and would have celebrated 58 years of marriage on September 2. This, by far, was his greatest achievement – second only to giving his life to Jesus.

Bob is fondly remembered for his fierce love of family and enjoyment of the outdoors — including hunting, fishing and competing in field trials with his field champion beagles; cultivating a garden with prize-winning tomatoes; and maintaining a large, manicured lawn with beautiful flowers that he and Sherry cherished from their front porch swing together while singing along to the radio.

He is preceded in death by his brother, William “Cookie” Freeman and leaves behind his loving wife Sherry; daughters Shemara Samaco (Bill), Cristee Koberna (Kurt) and Mistee Jefferies (Perry); and grandchildren Marty and Jillian Chen, Patrick and Evelyn Real, and Deklan and Piper Koberna.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 26, at the J.E. Foster Funeral Home in Toronto where friends and family can gather from 4 pm to 7 pm. Funeral services will follow on Friday at 11 am at the funeral home with Pastor Rob Minto. Military Honors at the Toronto Union cemetery will be presented by the Toronto American Legion. www.jefosterfh. com