Obituary of James E. Freeman

James E. Freeman, 91, of Peabody and formerly of Salem, died Tuesday evening at his home surrounded by his loving family following a brief illness. He was the devoted husband of the late Theresa H. (Mazurkiewicz) Freeman with whom he shared over 67 years of marriage. Born in Salem, he was the son of the late John and Belinda (Kennedy) Freeman. He was raised and educated in Salem and was a graduate of Salem High School, class of 1945. He has lived in Peabody for the past 64 years. Upon his graduation from high school, James enlisted with the United States Navy and served for two years during World war II before his honorable discharge. After the war, James embarked on nearly a 60-year career in the leather industry as a finisher with Goldsmith Leather in Salem before his retirement many years ago. Upon his retirement, James was an active member at the Trask Day Program in Peabody. There he kept the staff amused with his quick wit and humor. He looked forward to his visits there where he was engaged in all sorts of fun activities with the staff and others. James was also a member of the VFW in both Peabody and Salem. His favorite endeavor was the game of golf and was a long-time member of the Gannon “Happy Valley” golf course in Lynn from 1955 until 2005. He greatest joy though was sharing the game of golf with his grandson. James is survived by his two sons, James Freeman of East Boston and Donald Freeman of Tewksbury, his daughter, Elaine and her husband Jim Woolaver of Essex, his two brothers, Tommy Freeman of Danvers and Leo Freeman of Halifax, and is also survived by his two grandchildren, Mary Woolaver O’Neill and her husband Christopher O'Neill of Beverly and Matthew and his wife Maria F. Woolaver of Peabody, and is also survived by five great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother John Freeman and sister Marion Mercier. His Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday at 11:30 AM at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home 82 Lynn St, Peabody to which relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held prior to the service from 10:30 until 11:30 AM. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Salem. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Care Dimensions, 75 Sylvan St, Suite B-102, Danvers, MA 01923.