Donnie Freeman

Donnie Mark Freeman, 49, a native of Montegut, La., and a resident of Vancouver, Wash. died at 11:20 p.m. Monday, July 12, 2010.

Mr. Freeman was a parishioner of St. Francis de Sales Cathedral.

Donnie approached his final challenge in the same manner in which he approached his life – with commitment, love, and joy. Even while committing to his personal battle, he remained on his job at International GAMCO as long as he was physically able. The love, compassion, and support of his employers, coworkers, and customers gave him and his family much comfort throughout their grueling ordeal. Knowing the toll his illness would take on those he loved as well as himself, he focused his concern on the wellbeing of his beloved wife, Kari. A devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend, Donnie always shared his “joie de vivre.” He spread laughter and joy through his music, his culinary talents, his humor and “just passing a good time.” In his final days, he was able to come “home” to the bayou country and family that had nurtured him. Listening to the lyrics of “If I Had Wings,” and saying his farewells to loved ones, Donnie ended his journey with courage, dignity, and peace. Although Donnie was taken far too soon, he left a legacy of a “life well lived.” He will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Scleraderma Foundation would be appreciated.

He is survived by his wife, Kari Enge Freeman; parents, Earl and Mazie Pitre Freeman; stepchildren, Shain and Tyler Bolland; brothers, Laddie (Karol) and Todd Freeman; sisters, Larke (Kenneth) Cenac, Wendy (Charles) Black, Christy (Toby) Talbot and Lori Aspinall; godchildren, Brandi Robichaux and Billy Black; numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews; and aunt, Delores (Dale) Waguespack.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Abbie and Annis Freeman and Allen “Gator” and Iola Pitre; and nephew, Josiah Freeman.

He is buried at St. Francis de Sales Cemetery.

(Chauvin Funeral Home)