Freeman – Raymond Keith

Raymond Keith Freeman, 84, of Caledonia, Queens County, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2014, at Queens General Hospital, Liverpool. Born March 2, 1930, in Harmony Mills, he was a son of the late Edward J. (Ned) and Grace (Minard) Freeman. A mechanic and millwright by trade, he spent all his working years in the lumbering industry, first as owner and operator with his father and brother of the Caledonia Hardwood Co., and later as a sawyer and millwright for Willis G. Forrest Co. Ltd., Caledonia Woodworkers Ltd. and Douglas Lumber Co. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and was happiest when spending time with his family. Prior to his retirement, he was an active member of the North Queens Fire Association, having served as fire chief. He enjoyed spending time in his workshop and was a skilled craftsman. He was a member of Christ Anglican Church, serving as warden for a number of years. He was a Past Master of Mechanics Lodge No. 78, Past District Grand Director of Ceremonies and Past District Grand Chaplain for Lunenburg-Queens; Past Grand Steward and Past District Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia; Past High Priest of Rossignol Chapter No. 6, Royal Arch Masons; and Charter Member and Past Patron of Pearle Chapter No. 71, Order of the Eastern Star. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Eleanor; his sons Michael, Truro, Brian (Karen), Upper Tantallon; grandchildren Lauren, Jacob and Tyler; sisters Ellen Smith, Mahone Bay, Alma Laird, Bridgewater, Marjorie Cushing, Caledonia, and Geraldine (Chris) Nolan, Oakland. He was predeceased by brother Paul; sister Mary; nieces Katherine and Indigo; nephew Stephen. Cremation has taken place. No visitation by request. A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2014, at Christ Anglican Church, Caledonia, Rev. Nita Barteaux officiating. Family committal and graveside Masonic service to follow at Harmony Cemetery, followed by a reception at the Masonic Hall, Caledonia. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Raymond may be made to Palliative Care, the VON, North Queens Fire Association or a charity of choice. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.chandlersfuneral.com