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Jesse Freitas Obituary
Jesse "Pops" Freitas, Sr. passed away on May 18, 2020 at his home in San Diego, CA surrounded by those who loved him. He was born February 7, 1921 in Red Bluff, CA to Frank and Maria Freitas. After high school, Jesse played football at Santa Clara University. He served during WWII earning a Bronze Star commanding an artillery unit at the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, he continued his football career playing for the inaugural San Francisco 49ers and later playing for the Chicago Rockets and Buffalo Bills.
A longtime resident of San Mateo, CA Jesse taught and coached at Junipero Serra High School for nearly four decades. Jesse later retired to San Diego where he enjoyed fishing, gardening, and smoking cigars. A great listener, with a quick wit and twinkle in his eye, he will be remembered for his love of good westerns, his flat caps and flannel shirts, his endless patience and steadfast reliability, and for his quiet yet reassuring presence. He is survived by his loving partner Mena Guerrero, his children, Lynn Nichols and James Freitas, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Jesse is preceded in death by his wives Vernal Lee Freitas, Mary Elizabeth "Bette" Freitas and son Jesse Freitas, Jr.
A memorial service has been postponed due to the health crisis. For information on a future service or to send condolences, email [email protected]. Donations in his memory can be sent to Junipero Serra High School (San Mateo, CA).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jesse Freitas
James Walsh
October 27, 2022
Bronze Medal recipient for his efforts in repelling the Germans at the Battle of the Bulge. Coach Freitas was a great player as well and never boasted of these accomplishments. Dedicated to provide the best for his team's and went out of his to do so by giving us his all. He researched a taping technique to ensure I could play with a torn Achilles. He deserved a Championship from us in '73 and '74. Never had the opportunity to thank him.
Jim Walsh
Fred Messina
October 11, 2020
I played for Serra on the 1955 football squad, we went 14 and 0 that season, we dedicated the season to one of our own, Len who had some health issues, fell at practice one day and died later at Mills hospital.
It was coach Freitas who inspired us to dedicate the season to Len. Before each game he was the one who always fired us up. It was my honor to have played for such a great coach, he taught me more than just how to play the game, not to mention he was my math instructor as well.
Thanks coach for all you have done and may Eternal rest be upon you.
God Bless,
Fred S. Messina
Class of 55
Joshua Edmonds
July 28, 2020
I honestly did not physically meet him. I wish I could meet him though. I do wish the best for the Freitas family and i always will.
"A random fan"
John Vincent
June 1, 2020
Papa Jesse was a great teacher, coach, and mentor. He made the Serra High School experience a joyful one. His dedication and loyalty to our school will never be forgotten. May he Rest in Peace.
John Vincent
May 27, 2020
Thoughts and prayers to the Freitas family, praying that God be with at this most difficult time of your loss.
Neighbor
May 25, 2020
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss. May you be comforted by your cherished memories as you await the fulfillment of Gods promise to see your loved one again ~ John 6:40
EDWARD DAVID CULLEN
May 24, 2020
MAY , THE POWER PROTECT YOU TO A LONG-TIME SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS HEAD COACH FATHER FIGURE !!!!!!!!!!!!! PSALMS 55:01-55:23 ......... PROVERBS 4:10 ....... HOSEA 3:02 ....... MARK 1:08-1:11 !!!!!!!!!!!!! JAMES 2:10 .......... & JOHN 2:07-2:25-3:16 ???????????????????
May 24, 2020
Condolences to the Freitas family. Hold on to the memories you all shared and the joy they bring. God is a refuge in times of distress.
Ken McGinnity
May 23, 2020
I played for coach Freitas when he was the head coach of the San Jose Tigers. Loved him, he was a great man.
May 23, 2020
My sincere condolences to the Freitas family. May the God of all comfort provide you all the strength to cope with your loss
Chuck G
May 23, 2020
Condolences to the family of Coach Freitas,
May 22, 2020
Our deepest condolences to the family. We pray that God continues to strengthen and comfort you all during this difficult period.
Taylor
May 21, 2020
My condolences go out to the family of Jesse. He will be missed by many. So sorry for your loss.
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