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Ronald Freitas Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Freitas
Ben Hardaway
February 19, 2022
Doesn´t seem but a few days, but it´s been years.
Time doesn´t stop.
Ronnie is never far away. Always finding a connection.
Waterfowl season has ended. Remember Ronnie and I hunting a spot a the ducks were thick! Ronnie started shooting his pistol.
Coworker´s daughter has found her niche as a welder. Friend gave his wife a TIG welder for birthday last week. Thought of the girls but don´t remember who welds.
Always a connection to the past.
Ronnie you´re remembered! And you still owe me lunch!
s. murray
July 31, 2009
Ron was first a great friend, an endlessly generous person, a hero of mine . . . he will live forever in my heart
Ben Hardaway
April 9, 2009
This morning I took some time and reread the entries. One word that keeps jumping out to me is "positive". Positive force. Positive attitude. (He even had good things to say about the hospital food.) And he continues to be "positive" as he brings us together. And reminds me to appreciate and enjoy friends and family. Thanks Freitas. ("Dustin Hoffman"?)
Capt. Thomas McMahon, USN (ret)
April 6, 2009
Upon my retirement from active duty at the Pentagon in 1990, Ron was one of a new crop of LDO’s chosen (in his case by CDR Dave Kramer) to replace old salts like me. To be selected as an LDO requires standout performance and leadership that from many of the remarks in this guest book continued throughout his career as a "Mustang" AC. I had the privilege of seeing him about 10 years ago while he was serving as the “Force ATC Officer” at COMNAVAIRPAC at North Island, San Diego and was impressed with his military bearing and professionalism. Most recently we spoke last year before he became ill and I was impressed with his humility and graciousness. As a follower of Christ myself, it pleases me to know that I will have the privilege of seeing him “topside.”
Sent with deepest sympathy,
Bob Cooney
March 24, 2009
To the Freitas family,
My deepest sympathies for your loss. I would have loved to have attended the services earlier this month, but I was out of state due to my mother's passing from cancer also. I know how frail she was in her last days, and know how excruciating it is watching your loved one fade away in such a manner.
Ron was my first Facility Officer in Fallon, and was a true inspiration - both personally and professionally. He had the courage to stand for what was right and let you know when you were wrong. He is one of only a few people to whom I feel I owe my career.
I pray that God richly blesses you and gives you His comfort in this difficult time.
Anne Freitas
March 21, 2009
To Ben Hardaway (& The Guest Book in General),
Ben, it was kind of you on March 17, 2009 to make an entry in the Guest Book. The well attended (350 people +) Memorial Service on March 14, 2009 turned out almost perfect. The only downside being Michelle's absence due to health related travel restrictions.
As Ron and I planned it, our mission, at the Memorial Service, was to bring a little peace and comfort, to our daughters, and the many who in one way or another have touched this little family of five. So glad Ron and I, made the decision to have it in Dillon, SC. An extra thank you goes out to everyone who traveled from afar to Ron's boyhood home, without you the service would not have been the same.
We gave Mary, Ron's mom, free reign to do whatever she pleased in the Church Fellowship Hall and as always she came through. The luncheon was WONDERFUL. I am sure no one left hungry!
Open Call: All are invited to attend Ron's internment, ground burial, at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA on May 27, 2009 @3:00PM (must arrive 1/2 hour prior to service). Questions? Contact www.arlingtoncemetery.org
Ron's spirit encourages me when all seems impossible,
Daphne Corrado
March 19, 2009
It was my pleasure and honor to have first met and worked with LTJG Freitas back at FFVC in the early 90s. Without exception, he is one of those rare people that you have never heard anyone say anything unkind about or critical of. Absolutely everyone always respected Ron and was in turn treated with respect and it was a pleasure to work for and with him. Like some of you, I had the opportunity to visit with he and Anne at their home late during the first week of February, and while I was a bit nervous about going - I knew without any doubt it was the right thing to do and what I wanted to do. The very second I entered their home it felt warm, welcoming, and comforting (both to me and to everyone else there as well). Everyone visited, pitched in, waited turn, petted the family dog, as if it were all of "our" house; like a "regular" Navy Family. Visiting with Ron and Anne was so rewarding and fulfilling and I shall never forget it or the grace and dignity with which they both traveled this path. I can only hope for the same when my day comes because you see, Ron was and remains an inspiration to us all in more ways than we probably know.
My very best wishes to Anne, Michelle, Lauren, and Audrey. What an absolutely beautiful and loving family!
Mark Carter
March 19, 2009
Had the pleasure of working for Ron at FACSFAC VACAPES. He was always there for his people and taught me a lot...God bless the family..and thanks Ron.
Marc Romero
March 19, 2009
Ron was the hardest working LPO I ever worked for. While underway onboard the Vinson in 1983, early in the mornings, one would occasionally ask for Ron's whereabouts since he wasn't in his rack. After a while we learned to look behind the stat boards in CATCC where he would be in the fetal position catching a couple of hours of sleep after staying up late to do LPO stuff after Case 3 ops. Later in my career I looked up to him as a voice of reason and common sense in dealing with issues. He was truly a great mentor and shipmate.
ACCS Bill Ellis
March 19, 2009
Anne, Please accept my condolences and prayers for the family. I, too, enjoyed Ron's company from time to time and can't remember him without a smile on his face. He will be alive for many years to come in the Navy's Air Traffic Control Community through more sea stories than you could probably imagine. A great friend, mentor, leader and controller - he'll be missed.
MA1(AW) Talib Abdullah
March 19, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. As with many around the world, I am proud to be able to call him a Shipmate. He took a wild young controller and helped me to become a leader in today's Navy. His time with us all was not wasted, He IS an inspiration! God Bless You, Sir.
Ben Hardaway
March 17, 2009
Anne, a truly memorable service. Thank you and Ms. Mary for using Dillon as the setting.
For those in the Summerville/Charleston area, I (and I think I can find another) will trade you Ronnie for Ron stories.
Sandy Herring
March 11, 2009
Ronnie was so much fun to be around. He will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. May God bless each of you in the days ahead. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Keith Herring
Jerry, Patricia, Blair, & Timothy Smith
March 10, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May God continue to strenghten and comfort you.
Ben Heim
March 6, 2009
My memories of Ron are of a down to earth good human being who tried to do the best job that he possibly could at whatever the task. He has inspired many and will be remembered for the fine person that he is. The Navy and Air Traffic Control community have truly lost one of the good ones! My deepest condolences to the family.
Mike Griesman
March 6, 2009
I was fortunate to serve with Ron in Millington while on Instructor duty. His strong will and friendship was and still is an inspiration to everyone. He will be missed by all that he came in contact with. God bless.
Brenda Cumbee Fletcher
March 3, 2009
My heart goes out to Ronnie's mother, Mary, to Anne and their three daughters.
Ronnie was around nine when I met him and his family. He was with his mother, father, and two brothers, Glenn and Eric at a campground in Myrtle Beach, SC. All three boys were so full of life, outgoing, and had NO FEAR of anything. Ronnie's parents were devoted to their boys, and their lives revolved around sports, music, boating, and school activities. They loved their boys and were so proud of them. Based on the comments from friends and family, Ronnie continued that tradition with his own three daughters.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with those of us who lost touch with Ronnie during his adult life. He was a beautiful person.
Brett Easler
March 3, 2009
I had the opportunity to visit Ron a week before he passed on. Before my wife and I set out for the drive to Chesapeake from Fredericksburg I gave Ann a call and she was more than gracious for taking on visitors even though she had a house full of relatives. Amazing women, more later. Honestly I was a bit apprehensive about seeing Ron, wasn't sure how to act, what to say, etc.... but when I walked away I felt like Ron had done more for me than I could have ever done for him. You see Judy and I we were fortunate that day, we got to spend an hour with Ron whereas I was told most we could expect was maybe 15 minutes. During that time I saw a man, although physically frail and the look of a prisoner in a concentration camp, had a spiritual strength that was amazing and inspirational. Talked of being ready to go "top side" and be with Jesus, of course he was sad to be leaving Ann and the girls. We chatted of old times, laughed a bit, talked of things as if we were having lunch, and yet there was a calm and confident presence Ronnie had when talking about the transition. If ever there was a witness to be strong in the faith, Ronnie had it. And Ann, there by his side but never smothering, just a love you find in two people who know who they are and where they are going. In the last days I know that Ann was having a hard go of it but yet I'm sure she stood strong for Ron even when he was no longer responsive. That day I learned a whole lot more about my friend in that short hour than I probably learned in the years I have know him. He was a blessing that day and always will be a blessing.
Ronnie, I'll see you top-side.
Charles Lucius
March 2, 2009
To Anne and The Freitas Family,
I am from Ronnies' high school class, we were good friends growing up from cub scouts on. Ronnie was always fun to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Connie J (CJ) Bennett
March 2, 2009
Ron will be missed by those he touched, with his positive outlook and zest for life and his love for jokes. His no fear attitude blessed all that knew him, with a smile, and will continue each time we think of him, from now on. He made a great difference in this World and now his new mission has begun, I'm sure he will conquer all. My prayers and condolences are with the family at this sad time. Working with Ron was one of the great joys of my life, he had such a positive can do attitude in all he did. He will sadly be missed both as a co-worker and a good friend.
Susan (Susie) Turner McAlister
March 2, 2009
Anne and girls,
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. I, too, am one of the "Class of '75". Ronnie was a great friend and always had a smile on his face. I sure many of us could tell you some good stories about his high schools days. Take care and all of us will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Leslie McLellan
March 1, 2009
As another of Ronnie's classmates, my heartfelt sympathy is extended to you and your family. You each are in my prayers
Duncan (Dunc) Rogers
March 1, 2009
To Ron's family,
Ronnie (as we called him way back when) was my best friend growing up in Dillon. Reading the comments from his Navy family shows me that he carried those great qualities he had as a teenager all the way through his life. I will always cherish memories of the fun times we had growing up. What a great guy and a true friend.
God bless you.
Mary C. Freitas
February 28, 2009
Nothing makes a mother prouder than to hear good things about her son. I know that Ron "Ronnie" to me, was special and that he treated all people with respect and dignity. That's the way he was to his family, his parents, grandparents, and all the people he came in contact with.
He truly inspired us all. I will always remember his voice when he phoned me, "Hey mom, it's me"! I am a very proud mom. Thank you for your love for my son. Mary C. Freitas, 1110 Richard Street, Dillon, SC 29536
Billy Williams
February 28, 2009
Dear Freitas family.I am so sorry to hear of Rons passing.He fought a very brave fight.I know first hand what your going through and I wish Gods grace and peace to you all
Calandra White
February 28, 2009
Michelle,
I am deeply saddened by your loss. My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Love
Ben Hardaway
February 28, 2009
I guess I met Ron in about the 5th grade (both played sax, but not that well!) He was a part of my growing up. And I am better for knowing him. It was a huge treat for me that Ron become employed in Charleston and to renew our friendship, and he still owes me lunch!
Thoughts and prayers,
Ben
Dave & Mae Kramer
February 27, 2009
Dear Anne and Family,
We were deeply saddened to hear of Ron's passing. Now his suffering is over
and he can rest peacefully.
My first knowledge of Ron was in 1988 when I was a member of the In-Service
Procurement Board that selected him for LDO. I had the privilege of
reviewing his service record and recommending his selection for a commission
as an LDO Ensign. I was very impressed then and his performance as an Air
Traffic Control Officer continued to impress me during my years of active
service. Ron was a hard working and dedicated naval officer who was highly
respected within the AC community. Ron will be missed by all.
Ron and I became very good friends. I have many fond memories of times
spent with Ron and the conversations we had. I will cherish them forever.
He called me his "Godfather" because he felt I was responsible for his
promotion to LDO. The reason he was selected was because of the
accomplishments and performance documented in his record, not my influence.
However, I always appreciated being called his "Godfather".
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Lena Warner
February 27, 2009
Anne, I was a high school classmate of Ronnie's (Ron I guess now)....
I loved his postive attitude!
My prayers are with you and the girls.
Karen Seals
February 27, 2009
Knowing Ron has been both an honor and a blessing. His amazing ability to find the silver lining behind every cloud was truly inspirational. Though faced with his darkest hours, he still managed to greet everyone with a smile and a story about the two things that he loved the most: his family and the Navy. He will be missed but not forgotten. My deepest sympathies and prayers are with the family.
Anne Freitas
February 27, 2009
Hello Again,
Always a forward thinking guy, my husband, Ron, in a period of 2 years and 22 days read many obituaries and then pen his own, as it was to be written in all publications. He left me a wonderful road map to carry out his wishes and with honor I've done so.
For those who know us well you may have caught an error in the first sentence. I don't think it was an accident it was published this way, I think it was God's way of getting it right.
With Pride and Love,
Anne
Pat Donica
February 27, 2009
Dear Anne, Michelle, Lauren and Audrey,
We're saddened by your loss. We're proud and privileged to have known Ron and to have been part of his extended family. What a great guy across all the many roles of life--including cherished brother-in-law and loving uncle. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Pat, Greg, Christine and Mark
ACC(AW) Tony Gooch
February 26, 2009
Ron was on his was out of NAS Fallon as I checked in as a young AC2. My career path seemed to be one tour behind him as I was on the Carl Vinson prior to Fallon. I never personally knew him but his legacy was one that I tried to emulate. I appreciate everything that he did for our rate and the people he touched because they touched me. God bless.
Anne Freitas
February 26, 2009
To All Who Visit This Site,
Thank you for taking the time to sign the Guest Book. Your posts are a comfort and each time we read one it is like receiving a "virtual hug". From near and far keep those hugs coming! Spread the word to others, who might be unaware of this electronic avenue, to add their sentiments to this message board.
With Warm Regards For Your Thoughtfulness,
Anne, Michelle, Lauren, & Audrey (Ron's Girls)
Betty Caulder Price
February 26, 2009
MY thoughts and prayers are with you Ann and the children and with all of his family.
Cash Castillo
February 26, 2009
Ron always took me under his wing and gave me the "country skinny" as he would put it. He was true mentor to me and I will miss him dearly.
MJ Klug, LCDR, Ret
February 26, 2009
Ron and I were instructors stationed at NATTC Millington in the mid 80's and his was the first commissioning ceremony I attended and I remember Anne made sandwiches for the reception. Ron was my relief at FACSFAC VACAPES and I asked him to read the Controller's Creed at my retirement ceremony in 2004. Ron and I shared similar attitudes, passion for our community, our sailors and our Navy. He was an excellent leader, mentor to many and a true shipmate. His spirit will live on in the men and women he trained and inspired to excel. I will miss his laughter, friendship and love of life. My deepest sympathy to Ron's family, wife Anne and lovely children.
ACCM (Ret) Seth Fitch
February 26, 2009
Heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ron. What a source of inspiration, confidence and direction. As I sit here at NGSB looking out the window at CVN 70, pierside durng her current yard period, I can't help but recall the discussions we had about his three tours of duty aboard this ship. He’ll be missed, but he certainly will not be forgotten. CATCC 70 = LCDR Ron Freitas
Larry Kuzniak
February 26, 2009
Ron constantly amazed me with his positive attitude. He was always kind, friendly and helpful. His family, and how proud he was of them, was something evident from the first minute I met him. My prayers are with those he loved.
Gale Ansardi
February 26, 2009
Ron was a great leader and mentor. I had the privelege to work with Ron in Fallon and here in Charleston. His smiling face and humor will always be with me.
From one "shorty" to another......
Fair Winds and Following Seas.
Debra Kern and Bill Clancy
February 25, 2009
Dear Anne, Lauren and Oddree,
All our prayers and thoughts are with you all. We will miss Ron's great heart and joyful laughter. We are so very lucky to have spent a bit of time with him and cherish those times. God bless your whole family.
Irene Conlin
February 25, 2009
Anne
I was so saddened to hear this news. Ron and I served together at FACSFAC VACAPES in Virginia Beach. He was a wonderful, kind person who always asked how my daughter was doing. I will never forget his thoughtfullness and the way he always had a funny story or joke to share. Please accept my condolences.
Diana Tersak
February 25, 2009
I met Ron in 2000. Immediately I noticed his straight talk and humor. A true mentor, I asked him to be my guest speaker at my commissioning ceremony and often called upon him for advice. I am blessed to have served with him.
Jim Beck, SRG, Inc
February 25, 2009
Anne,
Ron was truly an asset to our company as our Program Manager for the Charleston area. His superb leadership, technical expertise and his excellent "people skills" were critical to our successful operations in Charleston over the past two and one-half years. He will be greatly missed.
Kathy Blanchard
February 25, 2009
Lauren my heart is saddened with this news. Even though I ony met him once your Dad made a real impression of warmth and kindness ..as did your Mom...I will always remember how I thought he looked sooo much like Dustin Hoffman..only to find out I was'nt the only one...Krystle is blessed to have a friend like you and I hope you guys always stay close...I will continue to pray for you all !!
Kathy Blanchard
Scott Hankinson
February 25, 2009
Anne, I am truly sorry for the loss of Ron. He was an inspiration to many in the AC Community. His lasting impact on the community will resound for years to come in those he trained and inspired. I wish comfort to you and your family in this time of sorrow. God Bless you all.
Fellow AC LDO
Chris Justice
February 25, 2009
While it is always difficult for me to find the right words at a time like this that might lessen the grief for family and friends - I am comforted in remembering Ron at his best. He was one who never had a problem expressing himself - sometimes quite eloquently. You will be missed by many Ron. Take Angels twenty, go button eight my friend.
February 25, 2009
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Ron is missed already here in Charleston.
The SPAWAR 5.3.7.1.0 Deployment Team: Kelly Decker, Karen Seals, Carrie Casson, and Maryellen Cole
Tony Corpus
February 25, 2009
Ron was a true shipmate and mentor; he's been in my thoughts, prayers, and sea stories. I served with Ron on two different tours aboard CARL VINSON and here in Charleston: He was my LPO when I checked aboard as an 18 Year Old newbie and I was his LPO when he checked aboard for his third tour aboard Chucky Vee as the DIVO. I was one of those Sailors that everyone talks about him taking care of - he went head-to-head with our XO to ensure that I went home on Emergency Leave after getting an AMCROSS stating that my wife and daughter (unborn at the time) were in jeopardy. His spirit and determination during his battle with cancer was an inspiration. He’ll be missed, but he certainly will not be forgotten.
Anne, God Bless you and your family.
Bob Craig
February 25, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with Ron and his family, which he loved so much. He will be missed.
Pete Magarelli
February 25, 2009
Ron was very respected among his peers in the navy ATC community. While I never had the pleasure of being stationed with Ron, I always enjoyed spending time with him at conferences and symposiums. There are several shipmates who had their careers enhanced through Ron's hard work and dedication. My prayers go out to Anne, Michelle, Lauren, and Audrey. Time and memories will eventually heal your sorrow. May God bless you all.
Bobby Cochran
February 25, 2009
Fair winds and following seas and God Speed.
Heidi Lanford
February 25, 2009
I am so saddened to hear about Ron. You are in my thoughts and prayers Anne, Michelle, Lauren and Audrey.
Sean Beebe
February 25, 2009
Ron was an inspiration and a mentor to all who came in contact with him. I specifically liked his "old school" approach to situations and his bottom line was always up front.
Keep em straight up there Ron.
Rich Roat
February 25, 2009
Ron was indeed "One of the Good Guys" that did a lot for the Air Traffic Control community. He will surely be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. God bless.
April Sarmento
February 25, 2009
Anne and family,
My prayers and condolences are w/you during this sad time. Ron will always be fondly remembered. Sincerely, Fellow AC LDO
Ed Woodall
February 25, 2009
Ron was a friend for many years and I,m glad to have spent the last couple of years working with him. He was a tough guy! I'll miss him.
Rob Bellamy
February 25, 2009
With deepest sympathy
Dave and Loretta Kelch
February 25, 2009
Ron was an outstanding naval officer, air traffic controller and most importantly, a true shipmate who cared about the people who worked with him. Ever so loyal to the Navy and the air traffic controllers, he often talked about his first love, his wife ad children.
Ron made a huge difference in the people he came into contact with and his legacy will live for many many years.
He will be sorely missed.
Ronnie Parks
February 25, 2009
A true professional and friend and a great guy to attend the Coronado Island noice complaints meeting with. God Bless.
Jeff Ehrbar
February 25, 2009
Ron was truly one of the bright spots at FACSFAC VACAPES. His humor, friendship and guidance will be missed by all. Always upbeat, he made working there a pleasure. Best wishes to Anne and the family
February 25, 2009
Ronald was such an inspiration to all of us here and he will truly be missed. Everytime he came here he always bragged on his family and how proud he was of his daughters. You are in my thoughts and prayers!
Shannon
Jeff Davis
February 25, 2009
I always admired and looked up to Ron. He was one of the people who I tried to emulate as an Officer and Controller. I hope the family will please accept my heartfelt sympathies. He will always be a positive force that genuinely cared about his fellow sailors.
Ish Ochoa
February 25, 2009
Miss ya Ron.
Dave Viger
February 25, 2009
Ron was a good friend and I am fortunate to have had the pleasure to serve with him and call him a Shipmate! Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.
God Bless...
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