Donald Eugene Freeze, age 88 and 8 months, son of Dolphie Lee and Zella Mae (Hill) Freeze was born October 16, 1935 in St. Louis, Missouri. He passed away at home in Licking, MO on May 27, 2024 surrounded by loved ones.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; and his three brothers, Robert Lee, Garnold, and Lloyd Freeze; and his first-born son, Larry Freeze.

He is survived by his wife, Shelby “Jean” of the home in Licking; one son, Terry Elliott (Louise) of St. Louis; two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Don grew up in St. Louis, Cedar Grove, and Maples, MO. He graduated from Licking High School in 1954. After graduation, Don went to St. Louis to work at McDonnell Douglas, where he worked for 45 years. But his first love was the family farm in Maples where he and his family worked most weekends. He called his family “Weekend Warriors”.

Don married Jean on August 17, 1957 and to this union two sons were born.

Don was a member of the Licking United Methodist Church and served as the President of the Methodist Men’s group for several years.

He enjoyed fishing, birdwatching, and volunteered for several years at the Licking Senior Center and loved all the people.

Don loved his home and family and was always ready to help anyone. He was a truly good person and loved God. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation for Don will take place Friday, May 31, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Licking United Methodist Church. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 PM at the church. Burial will follow in Licking Cemetery. The family requests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may go to Hospice of Care at TCMH, Licking United Methodist Church, or the charity of one’s choice.