Everett Freel Obituary, Ames Iowa Resident Everett Freel Has Passed Away

Everett Freel Obituary, Death – Everett Freel, a resident of Ames, Iowa, passed away at Bethany Life Services in Story City, Iowa, on June 16, 2023. He was born on November 2, 1934, in rural Boone County, Iowa, to Walter Freel and Bessie (Slippy) Freel.

Everett graduated from Ames High School in 1953 and married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn (Kyle), in 1954. Following his graduation, he enlisted in the Army, specializing in aircraft maintenance and serving in Virginia and Kansas. After completing his active duty, he returned to Ames and joined the Iowa Army National Guard, dedicating 34 years of service and retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 4.

Funeral services for Everett will be held on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at 10:30 am at Stevens Memorial Chapel. Prior to the service, visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm at Stevens Memorial Chapel. The burial, including military rites, will follow the service at Gilbert Cemetery.

Together with Marilyn, Everett purchased his father’s garbage route and established Freel Garbage Service, which expanded to serve multiple nearby towns. By the time they retired and sold Freel Sanitation Company in 1998, it had become the fifth-largest privately owned garbage service in the United States. Everett also served as the Coordinator and Chief of the Westory (Gilbert/Kelley) Fire Department for many years.

He contributed to the March of Dimes, served as a Red Cross CPR instructor, and worked as a First Responder for the Gilbert Fire Department. Additionally, Everett was an active member of the Moose Lodge and made significant contributions to the American Legion, holding various positions such as past Commander, Vice Commander, Honor Guard, and member of the Post Executive Board. He enthusiastically participated in numerous volunteer activities supporting the American Legion and its mission.

In 2002, Everett played a key role in organizing the first Legion Riders Chapter in Iowa at Des Moines Post 731. He served as the Advisory Board Chairman during the formation of the Iowa Legion Riders and, in 2006, established the Legion Riders of Ames Chapter. Everett and Marilyn shared a passion for travel and embarked on motorcycle journeys across all 50 states as well as many countries, renting motorcycles for their overseas adventures. Everett embraced challenges and sought out thrilling experiences, including piloting his airplane, water skiing, snow skiing, and more.

During his retirement years, Everett could often be found tinkering in his shop, riding his motorcycle, spending time with friends and family, enjoying Western movies, driving his ’55 T-Bird, and finding ways to stay active. He was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand, his positive outlook on life, and his talent for brightening up any room with his pranks and sense of humor.

Everett is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn, and their children: Gary (Kelly) Freel of Ames, Randy (De Ann) Freel of Nevada, and Susan (Steve) Jones of Ames. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Billie (Daniel), Nicole, Shaye, and Ethan, as well as great-grandsons Alexander and Zachary. Everett’s sister, Sandra (Tom), sisters-in-law Pat, Carole, Donna, brother-in-law Rodger, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, also mourn his loss.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 37, located at 225 Main St, Ames, IA 50010, to support the Veteran community. The Freel family welcomes motorcycles to be present at the services. Fond memories and messages of sympathy can be shared with the Freel family on the website www.StevensMemorialChapel.com.