Robert Colin Freeland passed away on May 27, 2021 at the age of 77. He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio and he lived there until his junior year of high school when his family moved to Newton Falls where he graduated in 1962.
Bob played football at Newton Falls High School and Youngstown State University. After college he joined the Army and served in Vietnam with the First Air Cavalry (1 year, 3 months, 14 days - as he liked to say).
In 1971, Bob moved south of the Mason Dixon Line and never looked back.
Bob was involved in all phases of commercial real estate and a staunch supporter of his local community. This was evident through his involvement in Ducks Unlimited, the Jacksonville Chamber, the YMCA, Sertoma, Rotary Clubs, NAIOP and BOMA.
His leisure time was spent on his collection of model trains, all types of train paraphernalia, duck decoys and cheering on his beloved Florida Gators.
Bob, in his heyday, ran multiple road races and a total of 4 marathons.
He is survived by Barbara, his wife of over 40 years, his sister, Ruth Anne McBride, two sons, Brian (Mavity) and Aaron Witt (Jorjette), a daughter Beth Hartt (Steve), 3 grandchildren, Sam and Leah Hartt and Alex Witt. He was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Clara Freeland and his sister, Bonnie Langley.
Service will be held at the Jacksonville National Cemetery at 4083 Lannie Road, on Thursday, July 1st at 11:00am. At Bob’s request, a casual gathering for cheer and refreshments will follow at Bold City Brewery, 2670-7 Rosselle Street, to celebrate his life.
If desired, in lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Bob’s name to Community Hospice.
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