Oct. 13, 1931 - Dec. 9, 2012

ELKHART - Charles R. Freeby Sr., 81, was called to rest by God after an extended illness at 9:05 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, at Eastlake Rehabilitation Facility.

The son of the late Wayne L. and Luella Freeby, he was born Oct. 13, 1931, in Elkhart. He was preceded in death by both parents and three brothers, Wayne, Jim and Keith.

He married Beverly Jean Wood on Nov. 19, 1960.

She survives along with their three children, Karly Kegerreis of Elkhart; Michael (Kathy) Freeby of Three Rivers, Mich.; and Chuck (Diane) Freeby of South Bend. He also leaves a legacy of 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

A 1950 graduate of Elkhart High School, he entered the U.S. Marine Corps in 1950 and was dispatched to the Korean War in June 1951. He served in four separate campaigns in Korea and received many medals for his service.

Charlie worked various jobs in Elkhart, including a 15-year stint at Federal Paperboard. He worked six years as a custodian in Elkhart Community Schools before retiring in 1995. However, he returned to the schools for 10 more years as a popular substitute teacher who served in a variety of classes including English as a second language.

He was active in the community, helping on Elkhart's Centennial committee, serving as a board member and volunteer at Elkhart FOP Little League and helping as a precinct worker on many Election Days. He also became very active as a member in Trinity United Methodist Church, serving in the United Methodist Men's group, TNT and hospital visitations.

Charlie was always quick with a smile and an infectious laugh, which delighted nearly everyone he met.

He enjoyed hobbies such as coin collecting, history and Notre Dame basketball games, but most of all, he enjoyed doting on his family. For years, he lovingly took care of his mother until her death at 103, but also was a loyal and giving husband for 52 years. He always enjoyed playing with his children and grandchildren, whether it was a backyard game of catch or serving as a model so his granddaughters could practice tying hair ribbons.

In accordance with his wishes, Charlie's body has been cremated. Visitation will be from noon until a memorial service at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2715 East Jackson Blvd,, Elkhart. Burial will follow in Rice Cemetery at a later date. Pastor Mark Dicken will officiate. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart.

Memorials can be given to Church Community Services or Trinity United Methodist Church.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.

Jerry Kegerreis, Albuquerque, NM I just received news of Charlie's passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jean, Karly, Mike and Chuck and all the grandchildren. Charlie was my father-in-law for over 10 years and he was indeed a terrifc person and true friend. He was in the hospital with my father in 1994 when they both had open-heart surgery the same day. I am sure he will be missed and I will always remember his smile, his laugh and his committment to his family.

Anthony Anderson, Elkhart, IN Chuck, Sorry to hear about the loss of your father. May wonderful memories warm you and your family.

Mike Ndfan, South bend, IN We have lost family too this year, our prayers for your pain and loss.

Harold and Linda Hazen, Fort Wayne, IN Linda and I extend our deep sympathy to the Freeby family and our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dave and Susie Chilberg, Elkhart, IN Jean, Karly, Chuck and family, we are so sorry for your loss . Charley was such a neat man and great Christian. We will all miss him......even while we all know that he is with The Lord in joy now. We are praying for you during this time.

Maureen McFadden, South Bend, IN Godspeed to the Freeby family. May your grand memories help you at this difficult time. You have left behind a beautiful legacy with your family. Heaven just got another great man and Marine. Semper Fi and God bless.

Sandra Taylor, Elkhart, IN Sincere sympathy for your loss,I worked with Charlie @ Federal paperboard,a great boss!

Elkhart Marines, elkhart, IN Semper fi to this great soldier from Elkhart Marine Corps league. Thoughts and prayers with the family.

Elkhart Marines, elkhart, IN From:Elkhart Marine Corps league. Semper fi to this great soldier from Elkhart Marine Corps league. Thoughts and Prayers are with the family.

Dick Siler, Mishawaka, IN My thoughts and prayers reach out to Chuck, family and friends. May you find peace at this time.

Mike Sweet, Elkhart, IN My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. Mike Sweet