James LeRoy Freeman, age 86, passed away at home on December 25th, 2015 surrounded by his family. James was born on November 7th, 1929 in Rapid City, South Dakota to Abner and Julia Powers Freeman. He married Bettie Bates on September 1st, 1950, who preceded him in death in 1967. He married Dorothy Clark Park on March 1, 1969. James was the loving father of four sons: James E. (Ellen) Freeman, Mike (Paulette) Park, Jeff (Sheila) Park, Jimmie (Kim) Freeman and nine daughters: Terry (Neil) Mahlum, Robbie (Roger) Bickham, Shellie Park, Tammie (Richard) Henricksen, Terrie (Dennis) Meissner, Ronie (Bret) Holmes, Tracy Park, Kathy Freeman, Bobbie (Dan) Allen. James was the proud grandfather of 51 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. James E. Freeman and Kathy Freeman preceded him in death. In addition, James had several brothers and sisters and many nieces and nephews.
James was a veteran of the U.S Army. He was currently serving as the Stake Sunday School 2nd counselor in the LDS Church. He enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting, being with his family and many more activities. He was an active member of the Hudson Essex Terraplane Club, where he enjoyed discussing, restoring, and driving Hudsons and other cars.
Services will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 East Dimple Dell Rd. (10600 South)) on Wednesday, December 30th, at 11 am. Viewings will be held on Tuesday, December 29th, from 6-8 pm and Wednesday, December 30thfrom 9:30-10:30 am at the mortuary.
