Funeral Services for Lilas N. Freeman, 82, of St. John’s Lutheran Home in Albert Lea, were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday at the Bonnerup Funeral Service Chapel in Albert Lea. The Rev. Lyndon West officiated. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation was from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday at Bonnerup Funeral Service, and one hour before the service.

Lilas died Friday, Sept. 13, 2002, at St. John’s Lutheran Home. She was born March 6, 1920, in Albert Lea, to Conrad and Ovidea (Schiager) Hagen. After attending Albert Lea Schools she married Howard J.A. Freeman in Mason City on Oct. 1, 1938. They made their home in Albert Lea.

Throughout her life Lilas cared for many area children and also cleaned various offices and houses. She was a member of First Lutheran Church. She loved camping and was known for her wonderful baking especially her date filled cookies. She also enjoyed crocheting dish towels and pillowcases.

Lilas is survived by five children: Marlene and her husband Howard Heckmor of Phoenix, Ariz., David Freeman and his wife Carolyn of San Mateo, Calif., Donald Freeman and his wife Vivian of Albert Lea, Allen Freeman and his wife Cheryl of Albert Lea, and Patricia and her husband Tim Donahue of Albert Lea; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; six step great-grandchildren, one great-great- grandchild on the way; one step great-great-grandson; one brother, Creighton Hagen of Albert Lea; several sisters -in-law brothers-in-law; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1989; and her sister, Mary Jane Freeman.

Lilas loved her family and the special times when they all got together for their summer picnic, holidays, and the many visits with her.

When she made St. John’s her home, she called the aides, nurses and other staff her extended family. They made being threre very special to her.

She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

God Bless you Mom. We love you!