Obituary of Roger W. Freebern

North River: Roger W. Freebern, 71, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home, Friday, December 16, 2011. Born October 16, 1940 in North River, he was the son of the late Walter E. and Mary (Savage) Freebern. He was a lifelong resident of the area. Following his graduation from Johnsburg Central School in 1958, Roger enlisted in the US Army and served his country honorably, stationed in Germany until his discharge in 1965. Roger met Carol Zufelt and the couple married on November 11, 1962. Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Roger worked for National Lead in Tahawus for many years. He went on to work at Barton Mines in North River for over 10 years, eventually retiring from Peckham Materials in Chestertown. Roger was an avid outdoorsman. During his youth he was an accomplished skier and worked on the ski patrol at Gore. He spent many hours hunting, fishing, golfing and gardening with his family and friends. Roger also enjoyed going to the track and playing cards with his dear friends Ron and Marcie. Roger was especially fond of his grandchildren. He loved getting down on the floor and playing with them, attending school events, and reveling in their accomplishments. Besides his parents, Roger is predeceased by sisters: Jean Freebern and Barbara Warrington. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 49 years, Carol Freebern of North River; children, Deborah Loomis and her husband, Herb of North Creek; Jeff Freebern of North River; Cathy Kennedy and her husband, Craig of Chestertown; grandchildren: Janelle and Ashley Loomis; Tanner, Pieper, and Cooper Kennedy; his siblings: Joyce Monthony of North River; Richard Freebern and his wife, Linda of Hudson Falls; Howard Freebern and his wife, Tobi of Rensselaer; his lifelong friends, the Gereau family; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Friends may call on Roger’s family from 4 to 7 pm, Monday, December 19, 2011 at Alexander-Baker Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg. A funeral service to celebrate his life will follow the visitation at 7 pm at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will be conducted 11 am, Tuesday in North River Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the North River Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 64, North River, NY 12856. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guestbook, condolences and directions.