March 4, 1933 - July 10, 2026
Jerome Joseph Freund
Age 93, of Richfield, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on July 10, 2026. A 1951 graduate of Central High School in Minneapolis, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served for two years. Following his military service, he built a successful career with Western Electric Bell Systems, dedicating more than 30 years to the company before retiring in 1984.
As a young man, he was an accomplished baseball player whose talent nearly earned him a place in the minor leagues. His love of sports continued throughout his life as he coached Little League baseball and youth football for his two younger sons. He also served as a baseball umpire, giving back to the game he loved. Jerome was far more than a coach, he was a mentor whose patience, encouragement, and character left a lasting impression. He believed every child deserved the opportunity to play, regardless of skill level, and made sure each young athlete felt valued as part of the team. Many of the young athletes he coached remained lifelong friends of the family, a testament to the positive influence he had on those around him. In later years, he found great enjoyment on the golf course. He was also a devoted Scoutmaster, guiding and mentoring young people. An animal lover throughout his life, he shared a special bond with several beloved dogs, most recently Charlie, whose fierce loyalty and protective nature brought him great comfort and companionship.
Survived by his loving wife of over 70 years, Mary Ann (née, Swenson); children, Joe (Malina), Jeff (Liz) and Jay (Jeff); daughter-in-law, Victoria Chlebeck; grandchildren, Kristen (Shawn) Gremillion, David (Bri) Freund, Meghan (Zach) Hofstee and Gianna Bonello-Freund; great-grandchildren, Gavin Hofstee, Lincoln Hofstee, Jackson Gremillion and Ian Hofstee; and other loving relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his daughter, Jill; father, Joseph Freund; mother, Gladys (Herbert) Reiner; sisters, Verona Freund, Phyllis (Gordon) Chelson and Audrey (Robert) Jackson.
Visitation
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
4:00PM - 7:00PM
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Ave. S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Mass of Christian Burial
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
11:00AM
Visitation 1 hour prior
Assumption Catholic Church
305 E 77th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55423
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Graveside Service
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
1:30PM
Fort Snelling National Cemetery
7601 34th Avenue
Minneapolis, Minnesota
We share in your sorrow at Jerry’s passing. May God surround the whole Freund family with His peace, love and comfort.
N. NManning & M. Henjum
Thank you for your message. Jerry was such a wonderful guy and I miss him deeply. We had 70 years together and I am so grateful for that. Hopefully You can come to one of his memorials. Thank you both again.
Thinking of you and your family Mary! I am so sorry for your loss. It is difficult to lose a husband after so many years together .I know your children will be there to support you.
Peder passed away in June of 2022. We celebrated our 66th Wedding anniversary in May. He was in the Minnewaska Retirement Home at that time, I miss him dearly but know he is in a better place now.
I am very thankful for the support of my children.
We also lost a Son- Steven who passed away October 26 2014. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. He went through numerous rounds of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. We rented a home adjacent to the hospital so our family and his wife and children could all be there. I know you also lost your daughter Jill.
Thinking of you!!