James “Big Jim” Freeman

James “Big Jim” Freeman, 82, of milion, died Thursday, June 22, 2017 at Mercy New Life Hospice after a 6 weeks illness.

Jim was born June 29, 1934 in Key, Ohio. He had been a Vermilion resident since 1974 moving from Livonia, MI. He was a veteran of the United States Army.

Jim worked for Ashland Chemical Company in Livonia Michigan, Chemical Recovery Systems of Elyria and retired from the company he founded, Freeman Environmental Corp. He was a member of St Mary Catholic Church, AMVETS Post 22, Vermilion, the American Legion Post 494, Huron gles and Lorain Elks Club. He enjoyed all sports especially golf and baseball. He had been a pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers Minor League. He fabricated golf clubs and enjoyed his family, especially watching his grandchildren’s sporting events.

He is survived by his wife, Rose Marie Freeman (nee ish) of Vermilion; daughters, Jacqueline (Mark) Neiding, milion, Christine (Kurt) Whitacre, Amherst and Melissa mett) Greely, Hilliard; grandchildren, Jessica Haverly and Matthew Neiding, Daniel and Lucas Whitacre, and Lauren, Katherine and Emily Greely; sister, Marjorie Stringer, Long Beach, CA, and several nieces and nephews. He was ceded in death by his parents, Carl and Edna (nee Harlan) Freeman and brothers Don and Bill Freeman.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, June 25, 2017 from 5-9 p.m. at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio. A memorial service will be Monday, June 26, 2017, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. The Reverend Jim Holmer will officiate. The Vermilion Veterans Council will conduct military honors.

The family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Online condolences may be made at home.com.