Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Reg K. Freeman, 80, passed away Saturday, October 29, 2022, after a brief illness and following two decades overcoming many physical challenges with courage. Reg was born to Gordy and Gen (Barton) Freeman in New London on April 24, 1942, the oldest of five children. He graduated from Washington High School, New London, in 1960. In 1961, Reg joined the Wisconsin Army National Guard, received basic training in Fort Knox, and later served in Fort Lewis, Washington awaiting orders to activate in the Berlin Crisis.
Christmas of 1961 Reg took leave for home to marry his “ski hill sweetheart”, Kay Baur. The two newlyweds returned to Washington and enjoyed the best honeymoon ever! Late 1962 they returned to the Fox Valley and began raising their family. Reg’s career began at Gilbert Paper in Menasha where he obtained a degree in Industrial Engineering and worked for over 30 years in the Maintenance Department until a workplace injury forever altered his life. Physical complications forced him to retire in February of 1999. These complications limited many outdoor activities and adventures that Reg and Kay loved. Reg served as the Treasurer of the Winneconne Men’s Club and was part of the “Klompen Kourt Kard Klub” for many years, both of which gave him years of camaraderie with many fun people.
Reg – Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Papa, Brother and Friend – is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Kay, the Queen of the family. He was incredibly proud of his family; daughter Lori (Brian) Baldauf, their children Shanna (Matt) Valaskey, great-granddaughter Evelyn Kay Valaskey, Jake (Chelsy Braun) Baldauf, and son Brian (Cathy Spoehr) Freeman, their children Grant and Mason. He made every family gathering or phone call an opportunity to reiterate how proud he was of his family and the love that he had for them.
Other survivors include siblings Rick, Roger, Steve and Cynthia, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. There are countless friends he is leaving behind, undoubtedly heartbroken but with hundreds of fantastic memories!
Many close friends and family have predeceased Reg, as well as his sisters-in-law Susan Freeman and Theresa Freeman, his brother-in-law Thom Adams, and his nephew Dan Freeman.
“Dad, your wisdom and your generosity of heart and soul will be forever remembered by your eternally grateful family. You were the kindest man we’ll ever know!”
“Honey, we had a wonderful loving life, all with no regrets. I will cherish our memories forever. We are so blessed.”
The family will have a private “Celebration of a Life Well Lived” at a future date.
Mueller Funeral Home-Winneconne is assisting the family. If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfh.net.
Dorothy Felda wrote on November 12, 2022
I was so saddened to hear that Reggie died. You both were so kind and understanding to Bob during his last year on this earth and I will be forever grateful for that. My sympathies to you and your family.
Scott and Allie Buyeske wrote on November 11, 2022
Dear Kay and family, Reg was such a dynamic man to be around, and our sympathies go out to you all. I’ll never forgot how he talked to everyone in the gym about anything and everything for “a long time” before ever even leaving the gym lobby! We are among the lucky to have met you both, and I pray for your comfort during this journey and thankful your family is together to support each other.
Margot Brand wrote on November 10, 2022
Kay and family. It’s so tough to say goodbye to such a man as Reg. My heart goes out to you. Loss and grief are no strangers but still difficult to learn from and at times survive.
Kay let’s go for some walk and talks when your ready. You were missed at book club.
Margot Brand Bld. 1
Fred & Char Steenis wrote on November 8, 2022
Kay and family, Lots of very old memories from when Fred & I and you & Reg were still "wet behind the ears" so to speak. Ft. Lewis, Washington for one!! May all your memories of happy times spent together and with family help to ease the pain of your loss. Hugs and God bless! Fred & Char Steenis
Russ & Margaret Kohl wrote on November 6, 2022
Dear Kay and Family,
Our deepest sympathy to you, Kay, and the family in the loss of Reg. We are very sorry to hear of his death and pray that
god will grant you strength and comfort at this time. One of our fondest memories is of when we couples (Mary & Bob, Marcie & Jim, you & Reg, and Russ & me) got together once a month for good food, drinks, and a great visit and fun--good memories! The men were able to enjoy good times at Men's Club, too.
Peace be with you and we are hoping to see you soon.
Mary Harper wrote on November 6, 2022
Kay, my deepest sympathy goes out to you. I am sure he is watching over you from above.
Randy & Sue Tews wrote on November 4, 2022
Kay, Lori, Brian and Family members,
We send our deepest condolences to you all. Our families have been like family for decades. I know my mom and dad were there in heaven greeting Reg with open arms! I remember mom and dad telling great stories of all the parties they had with Freemans, Johnsons, Ericksons and Prices. A lot of great time had I'm sure with happy hours, cards and great conversations and many laughs!
Randy and I are glad we reconnected with Brian and Cathy this year and look forward to making good memories like our parents have!
We send you prayers, hugs and our deepest sympathy.
Love you all,
Randy & Sue (Schmidt) Tews