Leo J. Freouf

Leo Joseph Freouf, turned 87, Monday Jan. 16, passed away Saturday Jan. 21, surrounded by loving family.

A longtime member of the Walla Walla community, Leo was most at home in the outdoors be it hunting, fishing, camping, or farming in his backyard. Leo served Our Lord at Eastgate Missionary Baptist Church for many years and was known for driving the church bus. He loved being a truck driver and dreamed of long road trips back to Wyoming. Leo retired a Truck Specialist from Dale Graves Inc. in 1989, and could often be found working on one of his many machinery in his own garage. After retiring he soon developed many relationships with local businesses collecting cardboard.

Leo J. was born in Lingle, Wyoming, in 1930, to Vincent L. and Mary A. Freouf. He relocated to the valley in 1967.

He is survived by wife of 58 years, Helen. As well as six children, 17 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren. Leo was preceded in death by five siblings, one son, and one grandson.

A celebration of life is planned for Feb. 18, at 2 p.m. at Eastgate Missionary Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice or Dream- Foundation. Leo chose this poem for his family and friends.

I Am Free (author unknown)
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free
I am following the path God laid for me.
I took his hand when I heard his call
I turned by back and left it all.
I could not stay another day, to laugh,
To love, to walk or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I found that peace at the close of the day.
If my parting has left a void
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss.
Ah, these things I too will miss.
Be no burdened with time of sorrow.
I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full. I savored so much.
Good friends, good times, a loved one touched.
Perhaps my time seemed all to brief.
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me.
God wanted me now, he set me free.