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BORN
1960
DIED
2018
Joseph Freed Obituary
August 14, 1960 - Nov. 14, 2018
WAKARUSA, IN - Joseph Dean Freed of Hancock, MI, age 58, passed away at St. Mary's Mayo Clinic Hospital in Rochester, MN on November 14 after their world-class medical team made heroic efforts to treat his sudden illness.
Joe's values of helping hands, loving heart, and giving spirit impacted hundreds of people he cared for and worked with as a nurse for Copper Country Mental Health, specializing in the healthcare of individuals with disabilities. In both work and personal life, Joe practiced kindness to all, encouraging everyone to have fun and celebrate life to the fullest. Joe wanted everyone to feel free to be themselves and to be empowered by their community.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, James and Jean Freed of Wakarusa, IN. He is survived by his husband, best friend, and life partner of 29 years, Brian Rendel and their adopted pound dog, JaXeN; Joe's siblings, Kim (Tom) Swank of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Mark (Tomi) Freed of Blanchard, Idaho, and Tammy (Rick) Maust of Wakarusa, Indiana; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Benjamin, Jr. and Bonnie Rendel of Calumet, Michigan for whom Joe helped care; Joe's brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Gary and Diane Russell of Allouez, Michigan, numerous aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins, countless friends, co-workers, and patients.
A memorial fund at the Keweenaw Community Foundation will advance Joe's caring legacy. The Joe Freed Empowerment Fund mission is to empower persons with disabilities. Donations to the fund may be made by visiting http://bit.ly/JFEFund or calling 906-482-9679.
Brian invites everyone who loved Joe to the Miscowaubik Club in Calumet, Saturday, December 29 from 5-8 pm for a celebration evening in honor of Joe's life. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to RSVP online at http://bit.ly/joefreed or voicemail at 906-451-4510.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Freed
3 Entries
R H
November 24, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences. Keep close to your heart memories of happy times and be comforted knowing Our Heavenly Father truly cares for your family. 1Pet 5:6,7
Chris Lauluma
November 24, 2018
I will miss Joe very much! I worked with him at the center in L'Anse for years and always remembered his fun and kindness toward everyone there. RIP Joe as you will be missed greatly!
C T
November 24, 2018
My deepest sympathy for your loss. May the peace of God strengthen you at this time. Phillipians 4:6,7
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