Donald Paul Freeman

Don passed away suddenly on June 20, 2020 in the arms of his wife whom he loved deeply.

Donald Freeman was born in Allegan Michigan on March 8, 1950 to Donald Miller Freeman and Marian (Bush) Freeman.  He attended Wayland Highschool, graduating in 1968.  Don then attended Michigan State University for 2 years, leaving to move to Colorado with friends.  He lived in Boulder and Steamboat Springs for 18 years before moving back to Michigan.  While in Colorado, Don enjoyed skiing, hunting, and the outdoors.  After working a few short-term jobs in Colorado, he joined the pipefitter's union, where he became a journeyman pipefitter and master plumber.  He eventually started his own business which he ran for several years.  Upon his return to Michigan he joined Pipefitter's Local 333 where he worked for many years.  After retirement from Local 333, he continued to work as a consultant for Consumer's Energy at various powerplants and hydroelectric dams.

Shortly after returning to Michigan Don went on a blind date with the woman that would become the love of his life, Susan Cuyler, set up by his long-time friend Gary and Janice Kotrba.  Donald and Susan were married on December 9, 1989.  Don and Susan's love grew until the day that Don passed.  They celebrated their engagement every year on Thanksgiving with roses and champagne.  Even in his illness Don arranged to surprise Susan on Thanksgiving.

Don was an avid sailor and cowboy who loved to share his passions with his family and friends.  He raised and rode horses and taught others to ride.  He hosted an annual elk hunting camp.  He enjoyed time on his sailboats with his family.  He loved to cook and host family breakfasts and dinners. And he enjoyed traveling with Susan.

Don was diagnosed with ALS in 2018, and although it reduced his mobility it never reduced his love for Susan, his family, or life.  He continued to enjoy visits with family and friends.

Don is survived by his loving wife Susan Freeman, sisters Bonnie Opperman, Elaine Patten, and Linda (Dick) Groendyke, and his brother Rodger (Adele) Freeman and many nieces and nephews.  His son Jade Freeman, Daughters Sierra Pyle, Kristi (Corey) Holm, and Kelley Cuyler (fiancé Joe Czapla).  Grandchildren Sophie Freeman, Riley Freeman, Landon Freeman, Jaizah Pyle, Rorak Pyle, Caleb Cuyler, Joshua Wheeler, Jordan Wheeler, Dylan Wheeler, Victoria (Dillian) Thomas, Corey Holm Jr, Rogelio (Amanda) Salazar, Farrah (Dylan) Bishop, Casey Churchill.  Great-grandchildren Oliver Cuyler and Wyatt Bishop.

Visitation will be at Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings Michigan on Friday June 26, 2020 from 1pm to 3pm and 5pm to 7pm.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday June 27, 2020 from 1pm – 4 pm at his home, The Freeman compound. The family asks that you bring a lawn chair and wear a Hawaiian shirt if you have one.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family for final expenses or to Susan Mast ALS foundation.