William Freeman

1952-2023

PERU- With profound sadness we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and papa.

Bill fought a short battle with cancer. He passed away at home surrounded by his loving family, In the early morning of Memorial Day. He made all his own treatment decisions, and from the beginning said he didn’t want anyone to shed a tear, if you're sad go plant a flower or pull some weeds.

Bill was born in Rumford and lived most of his life in Peru. He served in the Navy from 1971-1972. Bill was an industrial painter, worked construction in the paper mill, and cut wood. But his true passion was painting and light carpentry. He often said, “I don’t pick the colors, I apply them”.

Dad loved being outside whether he was hiking, cutting wood, or playing in his flower gardens. His love of flowers and gardening earned him the nickname Buttercup Bill. Dad got his love of nature and gardening from his mother, and he passed that love onto his daughters. He loved to read and retained lots of knowledge. He read every book in the library about the state of Maine.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 38 years, Maryellen of Peru. His children Cammie Sprague and her partner Ricky Knox of Buckfield, Ryan Freeman of New York, Mariah Locher and husband Josiah of Brunswick, Hannah Freeman and her fiancée Justin Aube of West Paris. His grandchildren Shelby Hall and husband Jesse of Key Largo, FL, Morgan Williamson and husband Finn or Bethel, Willow Howe and Eliot Aube of West Paris. And his dear friend Norman Deroche of Peru. And siblings Lynda Derouche and husband John, Cindi Proctor and husband Dalton, of Weld. Gregg Freeman and wife Cindy, Andy Freeman and wife Brenda of Peru, Valerie Bonnell and Husband Dick of Rumford, and Ernie Roy of Peru. As well as his many loving nieces and nephews, there are too many to list.

Bill was predeceased by his parents Ernest and Joyce Roy of Peru. And William Freeman Sr. of Mexico.

Dad always said “Attitude is everything”.

On line condolences can be shared at www.thibaultremembrancecenter.com

A graveside service will be held at Hammond Hill cemetery June 17th at 12 noon. Celebration of life to follow at 60 Lacorix Rd, Peru.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Androscoggin Home and Hospice 15 Strawberry Ave. Lewiston, Maine 04240. Arrangements are under the care of Thibault Remembrance Center 250 Penobscot St. Rumford 364-4366.