Richard Freeman

Richard T. Freeman (Dick) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by family in his home at the Meth-Wick Community on September 16, 2024, at the age of 97.

He was born in Independence, Iowa on December 1, 1926, to Kenneth and Marion (Taylor) Freeman. He was the second of four children. Dick grew up on a farm near Winthrop, Iowa and graduated from Winthrop High School in 1944. Following graduation, he served in the US Army for a short time at the end of World War II, before attending Iowa State University earning a degree in Farm Operations in 1950. He later earned his masters degree in Adult Education from Iowa State in 1967. During his time at Iowa State he met and wed the love of his life Ellen Brechtel of Lena, IL on March 18, 1949. Dick and Ellen farmed for six years before Dick took a job with the Iowa State Extension Service in Marion and Linn County, where he served as extension director for thirty years until his retirement in 1987. After retirement Dick served as a part-time administrator for Habitat for Humanity of Cedar Rapids for six years continuing to fulfill his passion for helping others. Dick was an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Cedar Rapids throughout his adult life. He was a man of great faith and passed this legacy on to his family. Dick loved the outdoors. He always had the most beautiful gardens and impeccable yard. He loved playing tennis and golf. He and Ellen enjoyed camping and spent the winter months in Mesa, Arizona for many years. Dick was a man who loved his family very much and cherished his time with his many grandchildren.

He is survived by daughter Sharon (Orlin) Schwab of Latimer, son Brian Freeman, daughter Janine (Bob) Bickerman of Peachtree Corners, GA, daughter Patrice (Greg) Alexander of Crystal Lake, IL, and daughter-in-law Peggy Freeman of Wichita, KS; ten grandchildren, and seventeen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers George and Earl; sister Kathryn; wife Ellen; daughter Lynn; and son Kevin.

A visitation will take place on Saturday September 28, 2024, at 10:00 am followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am at First Presbyterian Church in Cedar Rapids. Donations in Dick’s honor can be made to First Presbyterian Church.