John S. Freeman, age 80 of Pittsfield, IL passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL. He was born on April 14, 1945, in Chicago, IL to Richard G. and Vella (Harrison) Freeman. John married Nancy Hoover on August 20, 1966, in Bowling Green, MO and she survives.
John went to work for Callender Construction in 1966, where he was a driller and an explosive engineer until his retirement in December 2022. During his 56-year career, he was awarded the Blaster of the Year Award given by the State of Illinois. John and Nancy enjoyed camping over the years, and he also was meticulous when it came to his yard. He loved to fly model airplanes and was an avid NASCAR fan. John was a member of the Prop Kickers in Jacksonville, IL, a model airplane club and a past member of the Tin Dusters. John was strong willed, but a dedicated and funny guy that loved his family more than anything. He will be missed by all who knew him.
John is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Nancy Freeman; daughter Elisa (Greg) Brockman of Wentzville, MO; two grandchildren, Ashley Brockman and Nicholas Brockman; sisters-in-law, Connie Miller and Beverly (Dan) Mahaffey; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Millard Freeman.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL. Memorials are suggested to be made to the Prairie Heart Foundation. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL is handling the arrangements.
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