Billy Gene Freudenrich, Jr. passed away October 31, after a long battle with multiple myeloma, surrounded by his family. Born on May 6, 1961, in Oklahoma City to Pasty Jean Dailey and Bill Gene Freudenrich Sr., Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Harrell Wayne Freudenrich. He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Kembel Freudenrich; his daughter, Sarah Roberts (Justin); his son, Jake Freudenrich (Kinsey); grandchildren, Madison and Hailey Roberts, Theo and Blair Freudenrich; and his brother, Darrell Freudenrich (Cristi), along with their children, Steven, Catherine, River, and Dailey.
Early Life and Education.
Bill grew up in Edmond, Oklahoma, where he attended Deer Creek schools. He enjoyed playing basketball and spent much of his free time fishing and hunting. Bill often spoke fondly of the friends, coaches, and teachers who helped shape his character and instilled in him a strong work ethic.
College Years.
After graduating from high school, Bill attended Oklahoma State University, majoring in accounting. He was an active member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and maintained close friendships with many of his fraternity brothers for more than 40 years. It was during his time at OSU that Bill met Karen Kembel, the love of his life.
Marriage and Career.
Bill and Karen were married in 1984 at Christ the King Catholic Church in Oklahoma City. They began their married life in Tulsa, where Bill worked as an accountant. After a few years, he pursued a law degree at The University of Tulsa College of Law, graduating in 1988. Bill specialized in ERISA law and became highly respected in his field, earning lifelong recognition as a "Super Lawyer" and receiving the Employee Benefits Attorney of the Year award multiple times. Bill's career spanned 40 years, with significant relationships formed at Mysock & Chevaillier; Boone, Smith, Davis, Hurst and Dickman; and McAfee & Taft, where he eventually retired.
Family and Community Involvement.
Bill dedicated many hours to coaching his children in various sports during their early years living in Broken Arrow. When not coaching, he was always present to support his children and their friends from the stands, earning the affectionate nickname "Big Happy." He rarely missed a basketball game, volleyball match, or baseball game, often attending in a suit and tie.
Later Years and Legacy.
Bill was grateful to witness his children's graduations, marriages, and the birth of his four grandchildren. He enjoyed introducing his grandchildren to shooting baskets in the driveway, hitting tennis balls, and building Hot Wheels tracks. As his health declined, fishing became Bill's cherished pastime. He enjoyed memorable fishing trips to Table Rock Lake, Spring Valley, Gaston's, Montana, Lake Tahoe, and Alaska, where he spent time sailing and fishing for trout and salmon.
Gratitude and Memorial Contributions.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all the friends, colleagues, family members, and physicians who supported Bill throughout his battle with multiple myeloma. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday November 8, 2025, at Christ Church Episcopal, 10901 S. Yale Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74137.
Published by Tulsa World on Nov. 5, 2025.