Obituary of Edward John Freise

Early October 14, 2013, the world lost a pillar of the community, heaven gained an angel. Surrounded by his devoted wife of 52 years, Mary Ann, and his family, Edward J Freise went peacefully home to his Heavenly Father. A man of integrity, humility, gentle strength and generosity, he modeled a life of Christ. Edward was born June 11, 1934, to Hubert & Olivia Freise in Old Monroe, MO. He was the third of six children. He served his country in the Army in the 9th Infantry Division for 2 years. He married the love of his life, Mary Ann Westhoff, on October 29, 1960, at Immaculate Conception Church in Old Monroe. Their union was blessed with five daughters. Ed was a third generation builder in Lincoln County working with his father and brothers until assuming the role of President of Freise Construction Company. In addition he was co-owner of Moscow Mills Lumber Company. His greatest concern was providing jobs for his employees, at the same time insuring excellence in craftsmanship. During Ed's career, he facilitated construction projects which included numerous churches, schools, banks, libraries and the like, as well as custom homes. It was an honor for him to build for so many people. It gave him joy to build churches like Sacred Heart in Troy, St. Joseph's in Cottleville, Immaculate Heart of Mary in New Melle, Christ the King Lutheran in St. Peters, Calvary Baptist in Troy. Mr. Freise was a proud member of the Carpenters District Council Local #1987 for over 50 years. He served on the board of the Lincoln County Industrial Development Authority (IDA). Ed preserved his love of the military by joining the American Legion and served as commander. Another association of which he was very proud, was the Knights of Columbus. He was elected Knight of the Year and became a 3rd Degree Knight and served the Old Monroe Council since its inception. For many years he was retreat captain for Immaculate Conception Church at Kings House and Passionists Retreat House. His life was a testimony of love and generosity. He will be remembered for his joyful spirit, eternal optimism and strength of character. He enjoyed spending time outdoors chopping wood, golfing, fishing, and playing ball with his girls and later his grandchildren. Avid and true Cardinal fan, Ed will be cheering on the Redbirds from above. Edward is greatly missed by his wife, Mary Ann; Daughters and Sons-in-law: Jean and David, Angie and John, Marie, Ellen and Dan, and Colleen and Scott; and 15 grandchildren; Sisters: Joanne and Carol; Brothers & Sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews and friends. Preceded in death by his parents, Hubert & Olivia, sister Rosemary and two brothers, Dennis and Victor. A Mass of Christian Burial for Edward John Freise of Old Monroe, MO, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, October 17, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Church near Old Monroe. Fr. Joe Kempf, friend of the family and pastor of Assumption Catholic Church in O'Fallon, MO, will officiate with burial in Immaculate Conception Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be his grandsons. Visitation will be held from 3:00-9:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 16, 2013 at The Knights of Columbus Hall; 110 Maryknoll Road; Old Monroe, and again on Thursday, October 17, 2013 from 8:30-9:45 a.m. Memorials may be made to the Partners in Development, Guerline's Building Project/Ed Freise in the memo, (for building homes in Haiti) in care of Carter-Ricks Funeral Home; 3838 East Highway 47; P.O. Box 253; Winfield, MO 63389.