Michael Chandler Freeland

1977 - 2025

Michael Chandler Freeland obituary, 1977-2025, Vienna, VA

Michael Chandler Freeland

1977 - 2025

BORN

1977

DIED

2025

Michael Freeland Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 11, 2025.
It is with both heartbreak and love that we share the story of our beloved Michael Chandler (Chad) Freeland, who left us far too soon at the age of 48. Chad was born in Fairfax, VA on May 3, 1977, and graduated from Fauquier High School in Warrenton, VA. Together, he built a home in Vienna, VA, where he and Stephanie raised their three wonderful children-Liam, Isabela, and Ariana.

Chad was the heart of the family-a devoted father, a loving partner, and the embodiment of kindness. He greeted everyone with a warm smile and had a laugh that could light up any room. To those around him, Chad was a source of comfort and joy, always ready to lift spirits, even those of strangers. He was the kind of man who would quite literally give you the shirt off his back if it meant brightening your day. His memory will forever be cherished for the boundless generosity and love he gave so freely.

Helping others was not just Chad's calling, but his career with VDOT, a role he was proud to fill. Tragically, Chad lost his life in the line of duty-a testament to his courage and his unwavering dedication to service.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Carol Dougherty Freeland.

Chad is survived by his partner Stephanie, three children-Isabela (16), Ariana (16), and Liam (3)-his three brothers: Bryan (45), Dean (44), and Sean (41), as well as his father, Thomas Wayne (80). The Family is heartbroken by this loss, but eternally grateful for the time and love we shared.

We invite friends, family, and all who knew Chad to join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 13, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Demaine Funeral Home, 10565 Main Street, Fairfax, VA. The burial will take place at a later date.

On behalf of our family, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to the officers and staff of the VDOT Safety Service Patrol. Your steadfast support and friendship meant so much to Chad and continues to comfort us during this incredibly difficult time.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Michael Freeland's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

October 7, 2025

Andy Hyson posted to the memorial.

September 26, 2025

Brian Holsten posted to the memorial.

September 12, 2025

David NeSmith posted to the memorial.

Andy Hyson

October 7, 2025

Hearing about Chad's passing is a shock... although it has been many, many years since we knew each other I definitely thought of him from time to time.  

He was in my younger brother's high school class, but Chad and I got to know each other through soccer and swim team, and it was about a year or so we hung out, mostly at those activities, as we were too young to really do anything else.  He did think it was pretty cool when I got my driver's license, and I let him sit in the driver's seat at the pool parking lot or the couple times I drove over to his house.  That summer, 1990/1 (???), because both our dads worked at IBM, we hung out together at the King's Dominion Family Day, and our objective was to ride in the front seat of every roller coaster in the park.  That was a long, long time ago, but the memory stuck with me, especially the first time we sat in The Grizzly and the drop freaked him out!

I'm sorry to learn Chad and I will never be able to catch up in person to relive the brief moment of childhood, but I will always carry those memories with me.

Brian Holsten

September 26, 2025

Wishing you peace and comfort these difficult days may you have happiness looking back and strength moving forward sincerely, Brian R. Holsten

David NeSmith

September 12, 2025

My condolences to the family of a fellow patroller. You will be greatly missed and it was pleasure to have known you. I met Michael when he was just finishing classroom training and I was impressed with his positive energy and attitude. We all love you and will miss you from the highways!

Jeannie & Jim Clampitt

September 12, 2025

Our most sincere condolences and love go out to Chad's entire family. We are thinking of you all during these difficult times, and truly sorry for your loss.

Minni Powell

September 11, 2025

I did not know Michael, but I work at VDOT and we are one! We are all very sorry for your loss.

Robert Carey sr

September 11, 2025

My condolences to the family of my friend. You will be greatly missed and it was pleasure to have known you for one year and a half he was always genuine and even in bad times you always had smiles on your face. We all love you and will miss you but God loves you more. Your brother and friend Robertcareysr.

Lee Smith

September 11, 2025

I'm so sorry to hear about this. as a technician for the Richmond District in Sandston VA. I know how dangerous this job is, thank you for you dedication in helping stranded motorist and keeping Virginia moving. God bless you and sending hugs and prayers to your family.
Sincerely, Lee Smith

Brian Foster

September 10, 2025

Chad was always someone I gravitated towards at FHS. With similar likes and sometimes silly demeanor, we would keep ourselves entertained during the monotony of a typical day in school, sometime much to our teacher's dismay. We stayed in touch a little after graduating FHS, including my first surfing experience with him down in VA Beach while I was at ODU. Praying for his family and friends - Rest easy Chad.

Andre jacckson (Stoney G)

September 10, 2025

Chad has been one of my best friends from day 1 of us meeting. From our days of building Honeylab his company that he made me feel was my own by putting me to work as the lead photographer which allowed me to explore my love for it with a purpose..and get paid. We shared parenting tips and dreams for our children . ...also our love for family and our crazy stories of our childhood. One of our last good conversations was about his dad's birthday and I congratulated him on how he was able to come there as a well put together man ...ie. good job ,good relationship, new house , great kids ...I told him I was proud of him. ......and he smiled then exhaled ...like he'll yeah bro I did!!!!!
If you ever need me for anything ..please ask

Bryant Freeland

September 9, 2025

My brother was more than family - he was my inspiration and my role model in every part of life. His strength, kindness, and example shaped who I am today. Though he will be deeply missed, I will carry him with me in every step I take and in every action I make. GWOYAKYS

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Demaine Funeral Home – Fairfax

10565 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030

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Not sure what to say?

October 7, 2025

Andy Hyson posted to the memorial.

September 26, 2025

Brian Holsten posted to the memorial.

September 12, 2025

David NeSmith posted to the memorial.