James E. "Jim" Freed

James Everett “Jim” Freed, born September 15, 1954, to Everett L. and Virginia M. (Bowers) Freed, passed away on March 8, 2026. A hardworking man with a quick wit and warm personality, Jim deeply loved his family and found great joy in the outdoors, sharing laughter, and creating simple yet lasting memories with those around him. He was known for his famous “Jim jokes,” his trumpet playing, and his genuine dedication to the people he cared about.

Jim graduated from DeKalb High School with the Class of 1972, where he excelled in basketball and baseball and played trumpet in the junior high band. He attended community college for two years, continuing to play baseball, before spending time working in California. He later returned home to join his father and brother in the family business, Everett Freed Building & Construction. In 1982, he publicly confessed his faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at Waterloo United Methodist Church. Jim eventually established his own company, James Freed Excavating and Construction, Incorporated, which he operated with pride throughout his life.

An avid outdoorsman, Jim especially loved fishing on Lake Michigan. Some of his most cherished times were spent with his grandchildren, whether deer hunting, morel mushroom hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the outdoors together. He also found happiness in family fishing trips, attending Komets hockey games, camping, and sharing good food and laughter with loved ones.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, David Yeager. He is survived by his daughters, Jodi Cox and Laura (Justin) Glaser; his grandson, Keen Glaser; and his granddaughters, Addison Freed, Emery Cox, Lola Cox, Kora Glaser, and Paislee Cox. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Yeager of Charlotte, North Carolina; his brother, Keith (Tammie) Freed; his aunt, Dorothy Ankney of North Carolina; four nieces; one nephew; many cousins; and close friends, including Greg (Suzy) Diehl and Brian Cox, who remained steadfastly by his side. Jim will be remembered for his humor, strong work ethic, and the deep love he held for his family. The stories he told, the laughter he shared, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.