Mary Freeman

MARY ELIZABETH FREEMAN IDAHO FALLS, ID -- Mary Elizabeth Shafer Freeman, of Idaho Falls, died at home April 18, 2007. She was under the care of Hands of Hope Hospice. Mary was born May 19, 1918, in Berrien Springs, Michigan, to Clarence and Beulah Shafer. When Mary was a small girl the family moved to Berrien Center, Michigan, where her father raised apples, peaches, strawberries, raspberries and other fruits which were shipped to Eastern markets. Mary received her elementary education in a one-room school house and her secondary education at Berrien Springs High School. She then received a scholarship to the South Bend, Indiana, School of Commerce. After graduation Mary worked as a secretary for two years in South Bend and then returned to Berrien Springs to be an executive secretary for the Clark Equipment Manufacturing Company. Mary moved to Buchan, Michigan, when the company relocated. In 1942 Mary joined the Woman’s Army Corp (WAC) and served until December, 1945. She served at Dyersburg, Tennessee, Air Base and later transferred to a top secret position on the staff of General George Marshall at the Pentagon. During her duty in Washington, Mary was recruited by Commander Oveta Culp Hobby, who was head of the WAC’s to become a model for the new WAC leisure/date uniform. Photos of Mary posing in New York City were printed in newspapers all over the United States. Mary met many wonderful people, made lasting friendships and thoroughly enjoyed her Army career. During her tour at Dyersberg, Mary met her husband, Jim Freeman. It was a whirlwind romance and Jim shipped off to Europe soon after their marriage in November, 1943. When Jim returned from his tour of duty the newlyweds moved to Idaho and continued their education at the University of Idaho in Moscow. After Jim graduated, the family returned to Idaho Falls, where they have lived since. In 1957, Mary returned to work for prosecuting attorney Ted Pike. She then served as the court clerk in District VII. In 1961 Mary joined the AEC/DOE and retired from there after 23 years as a Public Information Specialist. For 15 years Mary and Jim spent their winters at their home in Mesa, Arizona, and their summers in Idaho. In her older years they returned to Idaho Falls full time to be near family. The biggest joys in Mary’s life were her husband and her children. Mary enjoyed growing flowers, especially roses. She was a voracious reader and loved to camp, play bridge, and sew. Survivors include her husband, James R. Freeman, three daughters, Cheryl (Richard) Rockwell of Long Beach, California; Jill (Roger) McQueen of Salt Lake City, Utah; Judy D’Andrea of Idaho Falls and a son, Jim (Kareen) Freeman, of Idaho Falls. Mary also had eight grandchildren: Matthew, Justin, Brandon, Jordan, and Tyler McQueen; A. J. and Mitchell Freeman; and Tia Rockwell, and four great grandchildren,: Mattison, Macie, River, and Fisher McQueen. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and a great granddaughter. Mary wished to thank her special friend, Audra Burgener, who helped her so much through her last years and became part of the family. In lieu of flowers Mary requested donations be made to the Easy Breathers Club, c/o Marilyn Miller, EIRMC, PO box 2077, Idaho Falls, Id 83403. There will be a short Memorial Service Thursday, April 26, 2007, at 5:00 p.m. at the Sandpiper Restaurant, 750 Lindsay Boulevard, followed by hors d’oeuvres and a celebration of Mary’s life. ----------------------------------------- Condolences received online: Joanne Flinn flinnj@srv.net So sad to hear that Mary has passed away. I know she suffered for a good many years and I am thankful that she is now at peace. I worked with Mary from 1976 until her retirement at the U.S. Department of Energy. She was a wonderful person and I shall remember her always. All who knew her just loved her. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Jack and Eileen Combo ejc@ida.net Jack enjoyed his time working with Mary at DOE-ID on 2nd St. She was a great person with a wide ambit of knowledge and capability. We both send our condolences to her family. We'll be in Butte on Thursday and can't be at the gathering that afternoon. Thus this note Greg and Janel Campbell gemnjul@hotmail.com Dear Jim and Judy, and family including Audra, So sorry to hear of Mary's passing. I enjoyed visiting with Jim and her. She always seemed so pretty with her white hair and her pink blouse. She spoke of her difficulties, but kept a bright attitude that she would deal with it and keep pushing on. The two of you seemed to compliment each other as you did what you could to help each other. My daughter Nicole often prays for Max's Mom and Dad. Thanks for the special connection in our life. With love and sympathy, The Campbell Family Bud & Clara Hansen & Family Our hearts & prayers are with you at this time for your loss of Mary. We appreciate everything you did for us in time past with the help in our family.