Gregory W. Freeland's Obituary
Mr. Gregory Wayne Freeland, age 71, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 1, 2021 in Fruitport. He was born on January 9, 1950 to Donald and Jayne (Kalkstine) Freeland in Muskegon. A lifelong resident of the area, Greg attended Orchard View High School where he met the former Patt Flannery. The high school sweethearts were married on December 12, 1970 and spent 50 wonderful years together. Greg proudly served his country while in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and was Honorably Discharged in 1974. He worked at A&C Carriers as a diesel mechanic and retired from NTB Trucking in 2015 as a truck driver. Greg enjoyed coaching his kids while they were growing up and recently helped coached his grandkids as well. He was an extremely proud dad and ‘Papa’ who attended all school programs and sporting events. He and Patt took yearly trips with their family and always enjoyed cheering on the Detroit Red Wings. Greg loved boats and cars, as long as they went fast and would always tell those with him ‘Hammer Down!’ He was a loving, caring husband, proud father, cherished grandfather, and supportive friend. He was someone you could have a gentle conversation with about life, sports, or anything that was on your mind and walk away with sound advice and logical answers. Greg will be missed by his wife, Patt; children, Mindy Freeland and Brett Freeland (Coty Taylor); adorable grandchildren, Avery, Preslee and Kruz; sisters, Melanie (Charlie) DeKryger, Cheryl (Mike) Kozik and Pam Ullmer; sister-in-law, Sharon Burda; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, step-father, Hugh Russ, and sister, Karen Eden. A Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 6 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service, from 10:00-11:00AM. Please feel free to visit the family’s online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.
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