James R. Free

James R. Free age 63 of Ashland, passed away on November 17, 2021 at Ohio Health Mansfield.

Born in Detroit, Michigan on August 1, 1958 the son of Wilbur and Ruth (Gay) Free he had been a resident of Ashland County since 2015.

Mr. Free was a Journeyman Tool and Die maker with General Motors before his retirement in 2006. He had also been previously employed at the Fischer Body Plant until his transfer to the Mansfield General Motors Plant in 1983.

He was a former member of the Freemasons, Lexington VFW and a former leader with the Boy Scouts of America with his son’s troop at St. Peter’s Church in Mansfield. He loved having boats at Lake Erie and Lake Huron and enjoyed fishing with family and friends. He also enjoyed many hunting trips with his dad to places that included Canada, Wyoming and Michigan. He also enjoyed watching all sports, including Michigan and Ohio teams.

Jim loved traveling with his wife, especially where there was water, including Lake Erie, throughout Michigan and especially Carolina Beach, North Carolina where he hoped to spend winters with his wife.

On March 14, 2015, Jim was married to Colleen Hobson who survives.

In addition to his wife, Colleen he is survived by one son, Evan J. Free of Mansfield; one sister, Linda (Steve) Anderson of Houston Texas; nephew Chris Anderson of Texas; step daughter, Darcey (Chris) Young of Bucyrus; step grandchildren, Chloe and Hunter. He is also survived by his mother in law, Bonnie Hobson of Ashland, Ray (Jane) Hobson of Jeromesville; Larry Hobson of Chagrin Falls and Arlene Hobson of Seattle, Washington. Several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews also survie.

A Celebration of Jim’s life will take place on Friday, December 10, 2021 at the First United Methodist Church,220 Sandusky Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805 at 11:00 am with Rev. Dr. Allan R. Bevere officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 am till 11:00 am at the church on Friday December 10, 2021.

Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be given to either of the following organizations. The Cat Santuary 1136 East Main Street #136, Ashland, Ohio 44805 or First United Methodist Church, 220 Sandusky Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805

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