James E. "Jim" Freed

James Everett “Jim” Freed will be remembered as a hardworking man who deeply loved his family, the outdoors, and sharing laughter with those around him. Known for his quick wit, warm personality, and dedication to those he cared about, Jim made lasting memories with friends and family through simple moments—whether telling one of his famous “Jim jokes,” playing his trumpet, or spending time together outdoors.

Jim was born on September 15, 1954, to Everett L. and Virginia M. (Bowers) Freed. He graduated from DeKalb High School with the Class of 1972, where he excelled in both basketball and baseball. During his school years, he also played the trumpet in the junior high band.

Community College for two years, where he continued playing baseball. After college, he traveled to California to work for a period of time before returning home to join his father and brother in the family business, Everett Freed Building & Construction. He publicly confessed that Jesus Christ as his lord and savior in 1982 at Waterloo United Methodist church. Jim later established his own business, James Freed Excavating and Construction incorporated , which he proudly operated to this day.

Jim enjoyed spending time outdoors and especially loved fishing, particularly at Lake Michigan. Some of his favorite moments were spent with his grandchildren—whether deer hunting, morel mushroom hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying time together.

If Jim wasn’t working, he was spending quality time with his family. He enjoyed fishing trips, attending Komets hockey games, camping, and sharing good food and laughter with those around him.

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. He is also survived by 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; as well as four nieces, one nephew, many cousins, and close friends who will all cherish his memory, especially his close friends Greg (Suzy) Diehl and Brian Cox who were always there for him.

Jim will be remembered for his humor, his strong work ethic, and the love he had for his family. The stories he shared, the laughter he created, and the memories he leaves behind will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A Memorial Service will be 11 AM Saturday March 14, 2026 at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 Center Street, Auburn, IN 46706. Burial will follow the service in Hamilton Cemetery, Hamilton. A gathering of family and friends will be Friday March 13, 2026 from 3 to 7 PM at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to DeKalb High School Athletics. To send condolences to the family visit www.fellerandclark.com.

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