Leslie R. Freeman

Freeman, Leslie Ray

Born January 22, 1953 – Passed into eternal life on May 27, 2012
Les, son of Ray and Juanita Freeman, husband of Marti, brother to Beverly and Alan, uncle to Christina, Vincent, Chelsea, Sarah and Michael and great uncle to seven, was a friend to all. Lighting up the room when he walked in, Les announced his presence with his infectious laughter and lit it up with his smile.

Les' curiosity led him to love exploring the United States and every country he was able to visit. Traveling with Les meant you may miss some of the museums and Churches, but you met local residents, had dinner in their homes and cooked at their stoves.

Les developed his love of sports by listening to Red Sox games with his Grandmother Eva when visiting the Boston area. His father helped him hone his skills by encouraging his participation and teaching him the game. His passion was not only for the game; but for the sportsmanship; camaraderie; history and strategy behind it. Talking sports, comparing tales, being an active spectator and teaching the intricacies of the game were part of Les' core.

To continue to keep Les close to our hearts and to share his love, passion, curiosity and spirit; we are in the process of establishing a community foundation in Les' name to provide equipment funding for Youth Baseball. To request more information, please send email to marti.kirsch@gmail.com.

Born in Liverpool, England when his dad was stationed overseas, Les was Ray and Juanita's #1. Once they returned to Colorado Springs, Les grew up in St. Raphael's Episcopal Church under the guidance of his mom. Church involvement was very important to Les, he volunteered and served in the Youth Ministry and was elected President of EYC (Episcopal Youth Convention) while in high school. In 1971, Les graduated from Billy Mitchell High School. He continued his education, studying at the University of Colorado, Boulder. While in Boulder, Les ran track and participated in the Olympic Trials.

Les moved to Chicago and spent many wonderful afternoons as a Wrigley Field Bleacher Bum. While living with Aunt Maxine, Les loved exploring the city, honing his dart skills and taking in the sport scene. Returning to Colorado in 1990, Les discovered his love of hiking, skiing and biking; he combined these with his love of camping and explored the West.

Please join us to celebrate Les' life with services at St. Raphael's Episcopal Church, 802 Leta Drive, Colorado Springs on Sunday, June 10 at 2:00PM. We ask that you wear a favorite sports jersey or T-shirt along with pants, shorts or sweat pants to share Les' love of the game. There will be a reception following the service.