Robert Whitman Freeman

Robert Whitman "Bob" Freeman, 72, of Haverhill, MA, died peacefully at home on February 19, 2025, surrounded by loving family.
Born on October 13, 1952, in East Orange, New Jersey, Bob was the son of SGM Whitman I. Freeman (USMC, Ret.) and Doris L. (Zellner) Freeman. His family later settled in Ipswich, MA where Bob attended Ipswich High School. A natural athlete, Bob excelled in sports, competing in wrestling, basketball, and lacrosse, as well as being part of the State Championship football team in his graduating year of 1970.
After graduating, Bob answered the call to serve his country in 1971, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps as an Aviation Radio Repairman. He earned the rank of Sergeant and served in support of the Vietnam Conflict while stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Though he was honorably discharged in 1975, he remained a strong and stoic Marine all his days.
On November 4, 1978, Bob married his Beanna, Jeanne M. Gallant, in Ipswich, MA. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two children, Amy and Chad. They made their home in Newburyport, where Bob spent most of his life on Plum Island, surrounded by the ocean he loved.
Bob harbored a lifelong passion for the sea. Whether casting a line for tuna, navigating the waters off Plum Island, or heading south to fish the Florida Keys, he found peace and purpose on the water. He and Jeanne cherished time spent on their boat, often in the company of friends and family, but just as often enjoying quiet moments fishing together. Bob turned his passion into a career, spending many years selling boats at Baert Marine in Middleton, where he helped others find their own joy on the water.
Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his children, Amy and Justin Napolitano, Chad Freeman and Erin Savage; his cherished grandchildren, Evan and Aiden Napolitano, Cody Savage, and Logan Freeman; and his sister, Bonnie Freeman Bayer. He also leaves behind many other beloved family members and lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Whit and Doris, his brother, Donald A. Freeman, and his beloved wife, Jeanne.
Visitation will be held on Monday, March 3, 2025, from 4-7 PM at the Campbell Funeral Home, 6 High St., Ipswich, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Information, directions, condolences at www.CampbellFuneral.com.