Jim Freeman

James R. "Jim" Freeman, 88, of Idaho Falls, died June 16, 2009, three days prior to his 89th birthday.

Jim was born June 19, 1920, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He was the only child of Russell and Zell Freeman. He was raised and educated in Idaho Falls, and he graduated from Idaho Falls (Central) High School in 1938. He then attended The University of Idaho (Southern branch) in Pocatello, Idaho.

Jim joined the United States Army in July 1942. During his service, he met his wife, Mary E. Shafer. They were married in November 1943, shortly before he was shipped off to Europe. One of the highlights of his military service was his participation in D-Day operations as a Radar Specialist. After the war, Jim and Mary returned to Moscow, Idaho, to continue their education. Upon gradua-tion from the U of I in 1948, the family returned to Idaho Falls, where he joined his father in the insurance business.

Throughout his life, Jim was active in civic duties. He was a longtime member of the Elks Lodge and Rotary, and served for 16 years on the Idaho Falls City Council. His passion while serving on the council was the Parks and Recreation program. Jim was very proud of his efforts toward the beautification of the city and creating recreational opportunities for all.

Jim left the insurance business to become an entrepreneur and created Cable Scene Magazine, a weekly cable TV programming guide. It was in this publication that Jim was able to express himself and the love for his family and community though his weekly editorial. After retirement, Jim and Mary spent their winters in Arizona and summers in Idaho. In their later years, they returned year-round to their home in Idaho Falls to be closer to family.

Jim loved the game of golf, a big trout caught with a spinner and worm and a challenging crossword puzzle. He enjoyed sports of all kinds, whether played by his favorite team or his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his children, Cheryl (Richard) Rockwell of Long Beach, Calif., Jill (Roger) McQueen of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Judy D'Andrea and Jim (Kareen) Freeman Jr., both of Idaho Falls. He was the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary in 2007; and one great-granddaughter. His family is especially grateful to his neighbor and friend, Debi Taylor, and his "best friend" and caregiver, Audra Bergerner.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, June 22, 2009, at Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge Ave. The family will visit with friends for one hour prior to services. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery with military rites performed by the Bonneville County Veteran's Team and the Idaho Honor Guard. After the burial, a celebration of Jim's life will be held at Pinecrest Golf Course from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the City of Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation Department, Attention: Green Belt Fund, P.O. Box 50220, Idaho Falls, ID 83405. A video tribute of Jim's life may be viewed and condolences may be sent to the family online at www .woodfuneralhome.com.

Family Tribute