Donnie Freeman

Donnie Mark Freeman, 49, a native of Montegut, LA and a resident of Vancouver, WA died Monday, July 12, 2010 at 11:20 PM. Visitation will be Friday, July 16, 2010 from Chauvin Funeral Home, Inc. and Saturday, July 17, 2010 from at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, July 17, 2010 at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral. He is survived by his wife,Kari Enge Freeman; parents, Earl Freeman and Mazie Pitre Freeman; stepchildren, Shain Bolland and Tyler Bolland; brothers, Laddie Freeman and wife Karol and Todd Freeman; sisters, Larke Cenac and husband Kenneth, Wendy Black and husband Charles, Christy Talbot and husband Toby and Lori Aspinall; godchildren, Brandi Robichaux and Billy Black; numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews; special aunt Delores and husband Dale Waguespack. Preceded in death by his grandparents, Abbie and Annis Freeman and Allen "Gator" and Iola Pitre and nephew, Josiah Freeman. 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.