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James Freel Obituary
Dr. James H. Freel, Age 77, beloved Husband to Linnea (nee Shepley) Freel, wife of 48 years; Father to four children, James, Mary, Bryan (Christina), and Laura (John); Grandfather to James Travis, Jenna and Carson; and friend, mentor, and role model to so many others, passed away July 11, 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Freel was born June 4, 1935 in Bay City, Michigan. He graduated from Marquette University (B.A.), Marquette University Medical School (M.D.) and University of Illinois Graduate School (M.S.). He interned at Presbyterian St. Luke's Hospital in Chicago, Illinois and completed his residency in Surgery and Obstetrics & Gynecology with a fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering in New York City, where he also was an attending for seven years. He was the Director of Gynecological Oncology at St. Louis University Hospital for six years and the Director of Gynecological Oncology at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center & Maricopa Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona until he retired in 2005. Mayor Gordon of the City of Phoenix, Arizona proclaimed Saturday, June 4, 2005, as "James H. Freel MD Day," in Phoenix. Dr. Freel was also a Major in the U.S. Air Force and served as Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the U.S.A.F Regional Hospital in Minot, North Dakota. Dr. Freel was preceded in death by Dr. Robert J. Freel, his brother and friend. Dr. Freel was a devoted husband, father, physician and Roman Catholic who will be loved, remembered and missed by his family, friends and colleagues. A Memorial Mass will be held at Blessed Sacrament on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at 10:00 AM. Blessed Sacrament is located at 11300 N. 64th St. Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 (480-948-8370). Please visit and sign the online guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/azcentral. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts in the name of Dr. James H. Freel can be donated to the American Cancer Society. 1-800-227-2345. www.cancer.org/involved/donate/donateonlinenow/index
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Memories and Condolences
for James Freel
Paul Petelin M.D.
July 9, 2024
There have been many times during the past 12 years when I have been asked for the name of an OB-GYN oncololgical surgeon. Jim's name always comes to
me immediately until I quickly realize he is no longer with us. Such is the lasting impression that Jim left with his colleagues.
Paul Petelin Sr. M.D.
John Murphy
July 9, 2019
The true mark of a person's life is the wave affect...was the wave positive or negative? What impact did they have on others? In Jim Sr's. case; he touched so many peoples in such a positive way that it is truly astonishing. Even years after Jim's passing, many people shared their stories on how good a man he was...how good a Doctor he was...and how important he was to them and their family. He left a huge wake of LOVE with everyone he came into contact with! We could all learn from his actions and we should all try and emulate him. Rest assured Jim Sr. is on High in Paradise...and deservedly so!
From our Washington trip back in 2009
JT Freel
August 14, 2012
Grandpa,
Thank you for all of your love, guidance and wisdom. You were an amazing man and if I end up half the man you were I will consider my life an accomplishment. I miss you so very much and I will always love you.
Thank you again for everything.
Love
JT
Michelle Zally
August 5, 2012
Dr. Freel was a compassionate and caring man. He always treated me with dignity and respect. His "work" is the envy of my new Canadian physicians. I am so sorry for your loss but thank God that he gave us this great man.
Joan Fagerburg
August 2, 2012
Please accept deepest sympathy from a former patient. I was sent to Dr. Freel from Flagstaff in 1990 when I learned of my cancer. He immediately set my mind at ease telling me to go on my planned trip to Berlin because he would be in Sweden. He would operate when we both got back. I continued drive from Flag to see him until his retirement. He was "the best".
Rosemarie Tower 6/ 4 West
August 2, 2012
Dr. Freel was an amazing person. he gave everyone the time they needed. he would sit and talk with his patients and answer all their questions.as for the nurses he would always write great orders so we rarely had to call him for anything. he would always give us financial advice. he would read our notes and would trust us when his patients needed something extra. he always rounded early on sundays and holidays because he would go to church and than pick up his aunt and take her out to dinner. he would bring us a box of see's candy every new years day.i can always remember him telling us we would get a higher place in heaven. he did have a temper and only showed it a few times. i will truly miss his kind words and expectations. i am constantly saying "he is no Dr.Freel".
He loved his family and his work very much. We did lose a wonderful person but he will never be forgotten in my mind.
Dr. Mark Burdorf
August 2, 2012
Dear Linn, Mary, Laura, Jimmy and Brian, you were blessed to have such an amazing man as a husband and father. I am lucky to have known him. Remember the special moments you shared together to get you through this difficult time.
James Freel
July 31, 2012
Dad,
You set the standard of what it means to be a father and a human being. Your life made the world a much better place. Thank you for your generosity, kindness, caring, understanding, and unending love. I love and miss you.
Your son, Jimmy
Karen and Marv Leff
July 30, 2012
May the entire Freel family find the strength to help them get through this difficult time.
Dr. Mike Janicek
July 24, 2012
I was privileged in 1998 to join Dr. Freel and Dr. William Crisp (who just passed away 9 days after Dr. Freel), and these two great men will be dearly missed and remembered by the Gyn Onc Community here as founding fathers. I had written some funny/fond memories about him, but this site reset itself..lost all that I typed... will try to add again later.
Patricia Weesner
July 23, 2012
Dr. Freel made his patients feel special. He listened to their concerns and always told them the truth, but mixed in with hope and kindness as he brought them from their first visit through uncertain and scarey times. He decorated 4 special rooms on our unit of 4 West, that were designated for HIS special patients. Each was different, and the patients were delighted to get to stay in them. He respected the nurses and trusted our judgements on various situations. We knew how he liked things to be done and we knew he would not complain at us if we needed to call him late at night. When Dr. Freel retired, we went to his office for a gathering of friends, family and co-workers. He gave our unit (now Tower 6) several beautiful framed pictures to use to decorate the halls. He was always giving the nurses advice on investments, and he provided impromptu meals for us now and then. We missed him when he retired, but Lord knows he earned it. We thank his family for sharing him with us for all those years, and we hope all of the memories you have piled up over the years will help to heal the pain of losing him. He's not really gone, he is just "over there", waiting for you to join him someday. Rest in peace, Dr. Freel.
James Martin
July 22, 2012
Great teacher during residency.
Huge loss for the community.
July 22, 2012
Kay Burkhart
July 21, 2012
Deepest Sympathy from a former patient.
He saved my life, Stage II Ovarian Cancer in 1991. Today, after 21 years, am still cancer free, Thanks to his expertise, empathy & genuine caring for his patients. He was the best of the best. I feel I owe my life to him. God Bless his family & love ones, I know he will be greatly missed by all.
Mom & Dad
July 19, 2012
St Joe's Tower 6 NURSES
July 19, 2012
To the Freel family. Our deepest symphathy to you all.
We here at St Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center "TOWER 6 ONCOLOGY" feel that we have truley lost the most compassionate and amazing physician we have had the honor of working with.
He not only cared for his patients but for the nurses. There were many times we would have a surprise waiting for us such as lunch or dinner. We missed him so much after he retired, but we knew he deserved his time.
He will always be remembered here on TOWER 6.
M Petersen
July 19, 2012
Heartfelt condolences to the Freel family. I'm one of the final patients he accepted before his retirement, and I'm so fortunate to have had him in my life. I attended his retirement reception at St. Joseph's hospital; he hugged me and said "everything will be all right." Those simple words have been a comfort to me for many years. Rest in peace, kind soul.
John and Louise Freel
July 19, 2012
We were sorry to hear of the passing of cousin, Jim. We know you have so many wonderful memories to help you during this difficult time. Our prayers are with you all.
The Freel cousins
July 19, 2012
Our deepest sympathies to all the Freel family in Arizona. Although we lost touch with this branch of our family we are sorry to lose one more Freel in the family tree that runs through Bay City.
Nancy Pierson
July 18, 2012
Dear Mary and Family,
I am deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved Father and Spouse. I know that this type of loss is difficult. Be comforted in knowing that you will never lose the memories that you hold in your hearts. Although I did not know Jim Freel personally, I easily gathered from my longtime friendship with Mary that her Dad had a generous spirit, offered his children sound wisdom and held many endearing qualities that made him a unique man.
May time heal your sadness and bring you peace.
Sincerely, Nancy
Mike Brady, MD
July 17, 2012
Jim Freel taught me and many of my colleagues how to operate, how to talk to patients, and how to love medicine, while simultaneously being a wonderful family man. May God bless him and his family. Rest assured he's got a high place in heaven.
Paul Petelin
July 17, 2012
To the Freel Family
I had the pleasure of knowing Jim and working with him on many difficult cases. I was always impressed with his knowledge, surgical judgment, and tenacity. His kindness to patients and family was exemplary. I will miss his smile and quick wit.
Paul M. Petelin Sr. M.D.
Howard and Jane Homesley
July 17, 2012
July 17, 2012
Linn and loving family of Jim Freel our dear colleague and friend for over 40 years are greatly saddened by Jim's untimely death. He was always a delight and joy to be in his presence and share his friendship with you and Jim all these years. Much has changed over the 40 year history but not Jim the always devoted father and husband and always with the needs of his patients receiving his greatest attention.
Jane and I will sorely regret that we did not make it out to see the both of you recently but do hope once all settles down to see you soon.
Our greatest love for you and Jim always.
Jane and Howard
Raelene Winter
July 17, 2012
They say that you do not know what you have until it's gone. This rings all too true for me.
Linn, Jim, Mary, John, Bryan, Christina, Laura, John, JT, Jenna and Carson. Thank you all for sharing one of the most amazing men I have ever had the privilege of knowing. I am truly a better person for meeting and loving “Dad” and I truly do love him.
“Dad”, your gentleness, grace, compassion, intelligence, humor and UNENDING,UNDYING, UNCONDITIONAL love for your family was a gift to be a part of and an amazing testimony to the man you were.
I had 2 years of getting to know you and in all that time, your life, talents and impact on humanity and women's health seemed understated. I wish I had grasped the gravity and feel somewhat cheated that I did not get more time with you. I will always smile and giggle when I think of the little mischievous glint in your eye when a joke was being made. The time at the Beach or sitting in the kitchen talking with you will each be a memory treasured. I cherish the last quiet moments you and I had together. Maybe you could go find my Dad and go fishing with him up there in heaven.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die. ~Mary Elizabeth Frye
Trish & Rich Clark
July 17, 2012
Our prayers and deepest sympathy to Mary and the entire family. May God's love support you in this time of need.
SHU
July 17, 2012
The Hartschuh family sends its sympathy to the Freel family and our hearts are filled with prayers for everyone during this time. Remain strong.
Cynthia Cusumano
July 16, 2012
My condolences and love to Mary and Mrs Freel and all the family Much love and happiness Dr James Freel on his new journey to spread his wings as the Angel he is in heaven.....
David Bonanno
July 16, 2012
May the lord take him and learn from his wisdom and kindness. The true sign of an exceptional spirit is that you only need to meet them once to never forget them. My love and prayers go out to the Freel family.
Gods Love
Jeff Adams
July 16, 2012
My most sincere condolences, thoughts & prayers go out to Mary & her entire familyin this time of need. I am deeply sorry for your loss but know that your dad is now with the Lord. God Bless
Rebecca Wilks
July 16, 2012
Jim was my teacher in residency, 1989-93. I can't say enough about his dedication to teaching and to his patients. When I think of all of the little sayings and jokes that he made for the sake of teaching (which I still remember), I can't help smiling. He left the world a better place.
Vicki Aime'
July 16, 2012
I had the privilege of working with Dr. Freel for 8 1/2 years as his "chemo nurse" until he retired. He taught me and so many others how to live life. He was never concerned about "earthly" things, but was always focused on a greater purpose. He always encouraged us to make our families a priority and helped make that possible any way he could. One of my favorite sayings was his response to any kind gesture that one would do, "you'll have a higher place in heaven." I can only imagine how "high" heaven is and that some day I will be there with Dr. Freel looking "up" to him. What and AMAZING man!
Dan and Mary Lou Segebarth
July 16, 2012
Dear Bryan and Christina,
Our sincere sympathy to you and your family at this very sad time.
July 16, 2012
July 16
Dear Linn,my thouths are with you during this difficult time I am glad to have met Jim and the wonderful time we had over diner.Linn take confort to know that God is holding Jim in the palm of His Hand and i pray to keep you and your family in His loving care.
With my deepest sympathy
God Bless.
Anna maria Brotto Wester Spring Il
Susan Musick
July 16, 2012
Prayers and thoughts are with you and your family, Mary, for your wonderful, brilliant, loving father.
David and Kim Tanner
July 16, 2012
BJF and Christina - We are all so sorry for the loss of Bryan's dad. While we never had the privilege of meeting Dr. Freel, we understand that he was one of the most compassionate and kind people ever to grace this earth. Perhaps our friendship with Bryan (and Christina) over the years has been but a true reflection of who Dr. Freel was as a person and what he tried to instill in Bryan as his son - to be honest, kind and giving. May God continue to bless you, Jenna and Bryan's family in the days and weeks ahead.
John J. Murphy
July 16, 2012
My sincerest condolences. deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers to Linn and the Freel Family; Jim Jr., Mary, Brian and Laura on the passing of their father; Jim. I know you are heartbroken. Jim was an amazing (understated) man and the patriarch of a wonderful family! I feel blessed and had the good fortune of knowing Jim Sr., unfortunately, it was only for about 3 years. I knew Mr. Freel to be a man of faith, who was highly intellectual, kind, genuine, down-to-earth, giving to a fault, and possessed the attributes and qualities, few men have. My life was enriched for having known him. Dr. Freel touched the lives of so many, making a real and positive impact; leaving lasting results. He had notable accomplishments; in education, teaching, business, with the patients he served, and the wonderful family he raised. The mold was definitely broken when he was born. He made a sizable donation to the world and he will be missed! I have no doubt Jim was welcomed with open arms, and is a welcome addition to our Father's kingdom, Heaven.
Joe Elias
July 16, 2012
Bryan,
As I read about your father's many amazing life accomplishments I couldn't help but realize that his greatest accomplishment, in life was raising a great family and wonderful son. He proudly walks together now with angels and saints in the perfected peace of Heaven knowing that his faith and his love here on earth will continue to live brightly though you and your family.
Our Prayers
The Elias Family
Luz Vargas
July 16, 2012
our thoughts and prayers are with you Mrs. Freel, I had the pleasure to work with Dr. Freel almost 7 years until he retired, he means alot to me, viki and yesenia.
Luz Vargas and family.
Geoff Jacobs
July 16, 2012
Dear Bryan,
The thing I will remember most about your Dad is that he always made me feel like one of the family. I will forever cherish the many nights I spent at the Freel household talking with your Dad (often over a late dinner) about religion, politics or the events of the day. I miss that a lot. Your Dad was one of the kindest, most genuine people I have ever met, and I am a better person for having known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We love you all.
Freel Ann
July 15, 2012
I'm sitting in an airport far from home, looking at Jim's picture with shock and sadness - but also with many affectionate memories of him in my heart.
Linn, Jimmy, Mary, Bryan, and Laura (and your families) - thank you for providing the love that centered Uncle Jim's life. His love and his true enjoyment of each of you, was so evident every time I saw him. We should all be so blessed ...and to share that love with others as Jim did through a life of service, professional excellence, and friendship. No wonder "brother Bob" admired and loved his older sibling the way he did.
Please know Jim and each of you are in my thoughts. Wishes for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Gina Petrecca
July 15, 2012
Dear Bryan & Chrissy -
Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this very difficult time. We wish we could be in AZ with you, but we will be thinking about you and sending thoughts & prayers your way. We really didn't know your dad, but if you, Bryan, were any indication as to the kind of man he was, he must have been a WONDERFUL person! God Bless your family and especially your Dad!
Love you - Mike, Gina, Mikey, & AJ
Gina Petrecca
July 15, 2012
Dear Bryan & Chrissy-
Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this very difficult time. May God bless your dad. We wish we could be with you in AZ for love & support, but we will be thinking about you all and praying for you. Love you - Mike, Gina, Mikey, & AJ
Keith & Adele Knight
July 15, 2012
To the Freel family - we are very sorry for the loss of your wonderful husband, father, & grandfather; and to all those that had the pleasure to know him, a friend. It was our pleasure to have spent time with you. Thank you for Bryan so that he could be a part of our family. God bless all of you. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Vincent Ruggiero
July 15, 2012
May your love live on.
Betty Arzate
July 15, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I will always remember Dr Freel as it was an honor to have worked for him.
Larry & Pat Aamodt
July 15, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with Linn and her family, for their loss. They have been great neighbors and Jim will be greatly missed.
Ed Donahue, MD
July 15, 2012
Jim Freel set the standard for gynecologic oncology surgery here in Phoenix. He brought with him the best training from Presbyterian St. Lukes in Chicago and Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York. Jim was the consummate professional who always had time for his patients, their families and the countless residents he trained at Maricopa and St. Joseph's Hospital. He was my colleague and my friend.
Mary Freel
July 15, 2012
Dad, I am truly fortunate to have had such a wonderful Father! Not only were you a great Dad, you were an incredible man that touched so many people's lives with your kindness, caring soul and generous heart.
Thank you for always supporting me and loving me, unconditionally. I know that you will be watching over and protecting Mom and all of us. You are forever in my heart and our beautiful memories, I will always cherish. I love and miss you deeply! Peace and Tranquility; As Ever…your daughter.
Sharon McCune
July 15, 2012
It was an honor to work for such a nice person who was fair and caring in all he did. Was wonderful to his patients and his employees. I am thankful I had a chance to know him and meet his wonderful family whom he loved so much. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless
Patricia Habak
July 15, 2012
My condolences to Mrs. Freel and the Freel family. I worked with Dr. Freel as a resident and as a young attending. He always had time for his patients, his work and he always had time to teach. I have had the great fortune also to be able to teach current residents regularly tell them, "This is how Dr. Freel taught me...." or "This is what Dr. Freel used to say....". It was a great honor to know him and learn from him. He was a role model not just as a physician but as a compassionate human being.
Bryan Freel
July 15, 2012
I love you and will miss your ever present integrity, love and kindness. You made those around you better - we will remember you always, your Son.
July 15, 2012
I will never forget the many wise words you spoke to me during those beautiful Freel family dinners -- I don't know if you noticed, but I always tried to get the seat next to you. Thank you for showing all of us how to be a parent, a spouse, a provider and a true Christian … and thank you for finding Bryan and making him a Freel. I love you, Christina.
John Jude
July 15, 2012
I could have, and should have, told you this while you were still with us. You possessed a rare combination of kind-heartedness, generosity and intelligence that was remarkable to witness and inspired everyone in your presence. You were an exceptional man; I loved you and will miss you dearly.
Dr. Bill Cohen
July 15, 2012
You were a skilled surgeon and teacher, who deeply cared for and helped so many patients and your Residents. You will be greatly missed but not forgotten. Rest in eternal peace dear friend and colleague.
Carson Jude
July 15, 2012
I love you Grandpa! Miss you:(
Laura Jude
July 15, 2012
Miss you so much Dad! Thanks for being the most amazing Dad anyone could ever ask for. I feel so blessed to have had you in my life. You were absolutely the BEST! I love you so much.
Jon Greene
July 15, 2012
Doc Freel thanks for being a second Father to me during my high school years! You will be missed!
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