Gerald H. Freeman, 77, died peacefully on January 24, 2022 at N.F. Memorial Medical Center. Born July 17, 1944, in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Clarence and Betty (Lynch) Freeman; and the beloved husband of Zelia (Burns) Freeman who he married on April 20, 1968 in St. John de LaSalle Church.

Gerald attended local schools and was a graduate of LaSalle Senior High School. After graduation, he served in the United States Navy from 1962 until his honorable discharge in 1966.

Mr. Freeman was employed at several of the city's local factories and retired from Occidental Chemical Corp. as a chemical operator in 2007. Gerald was an accomplished fastpitch softball pitcher and football player during his younger years.

Gerald's first and greatest love in life was his family and friends. In his leisure time, he enjoyed bowling and cheering for his beloved Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres and New York Yankees.

In addition to his wife, Zelia, of 53 years, Mr. Freeman is survived by his children, Cheri (Joseph) Lozina, Gerald Freeman, Jr.; his grandchildren, James Tobey, Joseph Lozina and Anthony Lozina; his great-granddaughter, Haley Tobey; his adored dog, Bella; siblings, Debbie (Mario) Fabiano, Bonnie (Patrick) Boyle, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Larry (Sharon) Freeman.

Visitation will be on Thursday, January 27 from 3 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Gerald's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10:00 AM in St. Vincent De Paul Parish at St. Leo's Church, 2748 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Please assemble at church. Military honors and Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery will follow. Flowers graciously declined. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.