Wilbert L. Freeman

Wilbert Lewis 'Bert' Freeman, 98, of Salina, passed away Wednesday, December 18th, at Salina Presbyterian Manor. Bert was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on November 3, 1915, to the late Norma (Voss) and William H. Freeman. He was married to Verna I. David on June 23, 1938, and they went to the New York World's Fair for their honeymoon. Bert was a music teacher and band director for 45 years. In all of that time he only missed one half of a day of school. They lived in Wisconsin for 42 years, and moved to Salina in 1980. Bert and Verna lived together in Salina until her death in 2011. Bert was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Salina, and a member of the Mariners through the church. He was also involved with Lindsborg Stamp, Antiques & Collectibles and monthly meetings of the local retired teacher's group. Bert loved horticulture, gardening, and collecting coins and stamps. Survivors include his daughter, Bette (Don) Timmel of Salina; granddaughter, Jennifer (Brad) Buchanan of Fort Collins, Colorado; and great grandchildren, Lauren, Jacob, and Zachary Buchanan, all of Fort Collins. He is preceded in death by his parents and wife Verna. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 30th at the Salina First Presbyterian Church, in the chapel, with Pastor Austin Ashenbrenner, officiating. At the family's request there will be no visitation. Inurnment will be at Wisconsin Memorial Park & Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Salina First Presbyterian Church; 308 S. 8th; Salina, Kansas 67401; Salina Presbyterian Manor; 2601 E. Crawford Salina, Kansas 67401; or the Salina Symphony; P.O. Box 792; Salina, Kansas 67402.