Allen Freeman

Allen was born in Norway, Michigan on September 26, 1949 to Kidford Freeman and Doris Marie Waldbillig. While the family lived in Niagara, Wisconsin when Allen was born, he went on to graduate from high school class of 1967 Kingsford, Michigan. First of his family to complete a secondary education, Allen studied engineering at Northern Michigan University graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1972. At age 21, Allen completed basic training and served sixteen years in the United States Army National Guard. Allen affirmed his baptism in Christ and was confirmed on Pentecost Sunday, 1964 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Quinnesec, Michigan. Allen married Jean (Rouse) Rosene on his 21st birthday in 1970 at First Lutheran Church in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Allen and Jean have two daughters, Angela and Kayla. Allen spent his career at Lake Superior and Ishpeming Railroad working his way up through the company. After thirty-five years, Allen retired as the head engineer of the Maintenance of Way Department for LS&I, by then operated and owned by Cleveland Cliffs.

From a young age and throughout his life, Allen enjoyed riding motorcycles, fixing up and showing off old street rod cars and trucks, and always loved spending time in the outdoors hunting and fishing. He loved boating on the Great Lakes and for a number of years he chartered fishing trips so others could experience the grandeur and beauty of the lakes as well. Allen and Patti (Moote) Freeman were married in Munising, Michigan in January of 2002. They made their home together in Munising, Patti's childhood home. Allen spent many hours walking in the woods or bird hunting with his furry companion, a springer spaniel named Bing. In July of 2021, Allen received the difficult news of his first cancer diagnosis and spent the last two years battling the illness with bravery and grace. He was called home to the Lord on Thursday, July 5, 2023 after being hospitalized in Green Bay, Wisconsin and cared for by daughters and family.

Allen is preceded in death by his mother and father, his older brother, Duane, his beloved wife, Patti (Moote) Freeman. He is survived by his daughters, Angela Freeman-Riley (Jonathan) of Cleveland, Ohio; Kayla (Zachary) Goddard of De Pere, Wisconsin; Stepdaughter, Cyle Wickstrom of Green Bay, Wisconsin; Grandchildren, Ella, Wesley, and Audrey; siblings Cheryl Miller and Rich Freeman; as well as many nephews, nieces, and dear friends.

Allen will be buried in Maple Grove Cemetery in Munising, Michigan. Inurnment and reception will be scheduled at a later date. In honor of Allen and in lieu of flowers, you are encouraged to make a financial gift to your local animal shelter, the ASPCA, or adopt a new furry friend and give it a loving home.