William C. Freeman

William Charles "Bill" Freeman, 84, Topeka, passed away on Saturday, April 7, 2012 at Midland Hospice House.

Bill was born March 5, 1928 in Olivet, Kansas, the son of Ross T. and Pearl O. (Richardson) Freeman. He lived in Colorado and Kansas during his youth. He graduated in 1947 from Melvern Rural High School, Melvern, Kansas. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Korean War. He worked for Santa Fe Railroad for over 38 years before retiring in 1989. He was a member of the American Legion Post #1, Philip Billard V.F.W. Post 1650, and Countryside United Methodist Church.

Bill married Wilma I. Werst on June 4, 1955 in Topeka. He was a dedicated and loving husband to his wife, Wilma, for over 56 years; a wonderful father to Sheila A. Gropp, Topeka; devoted grandfather to Christopher W. Gropp, Topeka; a cherished great-grandpa to his "Princess", Hailey M. Mayer-Gropp. He is also survived by his four brothers: Leonard R. Freeman, Topeka, George A. Freeman, Kelso, WA, John A. Freeman, San Diego, CA, Earl D. Freeman, Grove, OK; and a sister, Anna Pearl "Ann" Thompson, El Cajon, CA; and many nephews and nieces.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 13, 2012 at Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel. Burial will follow at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery, 3616 SW 6th Ave, Topeka. Bill will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. on Thursday and visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care Hospice Services, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, Kansas 66606.