Ronald Allen Freeman passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Wednesday April 28, 2021 of complications from leukemia. He was 65 years old.

Born May 16, 1955 to Fred and Neva Freeman in Orofino, he was the youngest of four siblings. In high school he enjoyed playing sports and playing drums. One of his fondest memories was parading at President Richard Nixon’s Inauguration Parade in Washington, DC, with his high school orchestra. He then graduated from the University of Idaho with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. He was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Brotherhood during his time there.

He married Julie Nissen on April 19, 1980 and they celebrated 41 years of marriage before his death. Together, they raised three children: Shane, Megan and Kevin. Ron was very family oriented and enjoyed spending time with his wife and children, as well as the extended family. The kids loved going back to work with Dad after work hours in their youth to turn on all the TVs in the sales area to watch a show on a wall of screens. Good memories include going to TR Video to rent the latest movies, as well as golf, sporting events, and filming. He had the best “daddy jokes” around, his laugh was infectious and even funnier when he was the only one who thought he was funny.

Professionally, he owned Deranleau, along with his “brother” Barry. His passion for creating a happy and welcoming environment for his employees to come each day was impressive. He appreciated each member of the team at work so much and greatly appreciated their daily contribution to making the store a success. The outpouring of love and support for Ron, especially in his final days, was overwhelming and a true testament to the relationships he has forged with employees, both old and new.

Ron loved to play golf and had many golf buddies. He was known to always be there for his family and friends to help them in any way he could. The funny stories we heard about Dad as family and friends made their last calls and visits to their boyfriend were heartwarming and showed his true friendship with so many people. Some of the best stories we’ve heard include: how surprised he was to find someone to marry him; bachelor autopilot; beer in the barn; bribe with Kevin; Megan accusing her of killing Santa’s reindeer after a hunting trip so that she wouldn’t get any presents; and Shane with the serpent’s defense on the golf course.

Ron is survived by his wife of over 41 years, Julie; their children, Shane (Erica) Freeman, Megan (Tim) Gamber (her first grandson is on the way, whom Ron was eager to meet) and Kevin Freeman; siblings Yvonne Pickett, Donna (Kent) Smith and Dave (Brenda) Freeman; brother-in-law, Dick (Sandy) Nissen; sister-in-law, Candi Nissen; as well as a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Fred Freeman; mother, Neva Wilson; in-laws, Dick and Shirley Nissen; brothers-in-law, Earl Pickett and Gary Nissen; nieces, Angela and Madison Nissen; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday, May 25 at 2:00 p.m. at Mountain View Funeral Home, 3521 Seventh Street No. 5137, Lewiston. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a local charity of your choice.

Ron was a big believer in keeping money local, as the community has supported him by buying local for over 40 years.