John Freer

AUSTIN - John D. Freer of Austin passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026.
John was born to Marie Herrick and Jack David Brown in Olean, N.Y., on Sept. 24, 1935. After his mother remarried he was raised by her and his adoptive father, Paul Freer, along with his siblings, Ivan, Alice and Niel Freer.
John graduated from Roulette High School in 1953, later attending Penn State University before leaving to enlist in the U.S. Navy. A proud veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1958 aboard the USS Cassin Young, a preserved Fletcher-class destroyer from World War II that is now a museum in Boston.
After returning home from his time in the service he began work in the local area before starting what would become a long and dedicated career with UNG/National Fuel, from which he would eventually retire in 1993. During his career he was active in his community as a member of the Jaycees (the United States Junior Chamber) as well as serving on the Austin Borough Council.
He met his late wife, Sandy, by chance at a local dance; a meeting they both described as fate. On July 22, 1960, they married in Austin. Together they enjoyed 62 years of marriage filled with camping, boating, enjoying the outdoors and watching their family grow. A lover of animals, especially dogs, he and Sandy opened their home to numerous pets through rescue organizations over the years, including his most recent dog and loyal companion, Max.
Known as "Papa" in his family, John was a true sailor at heart, often spending hours on the water at Kinzua Dam - fishing, swimming and enjoying time aboard their own pontoon boat with Sandy and their loved ones.
Anyone who knew John knew that he was a true craftsman, often spending hours in his garage fixing, building or happily tinkering with his tools. He was rarely without a tune, known for whistling throughout the day - a simple joy that became one of the many small things his family will forever remember. In his quieter moments he enjoyed watching sports on TV, playing darts, reading and tackling even the most challenging crossword puzzles he could find.
John took great pride in his role as a family man; giving each of his grandchildren their own affectionate nicknames and often calling them first thing in the morning on their birthdays so that he could be the first person to speak to them that day. Known for his love of sweets, it wasn't uncommon to find dishes of candy (especially peanut butter cups) around his house. His youngest grandson especially remembers how Papa would carefully split a chocolate bar and share the pieces with him. Small gestures that meant the world.
To say he will be greatly missed is an understatement.
In addition to his parents and his beloved wife, Sandy, he was predeceased by his great-granddaughter Pamela Crants.
John is survived by his two sons, Robert Freer and Alton "Buddy" (Marea) Freer; along with five grandchildren, Eryn (Eric) Fiebig, Heather (Michael) Postlewait, Casey (Klaus) Puck, Amanda Wehler and Hunter (Kelsee) Freer.
He was also a cherished great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather to Aedrik, Axeton and Ander Fiebig, Willie Postlewait, Claudia Puck, Madison and Abel Langfitt, Olivia Wehler, Kade Freer, Sutton and Micha Crants and William Ryan Postlewait.
He is also remembered by his siblings, Ivan (Joan) Freer, Alice (John) Henneberry and Niel (Nancy) Freer and their families.
At John's request there will be no public visitation or funeral. A private family memorial will be held at the family's convenience.
Memorial donations may be made in John & Sandy's name to the Austin Fire Department, P.O. Box 328, Austin, PA 16720; or to Teacher's Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915.
John entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse. To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of John, please visit virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.