Barbara J. (Carpenter) Freel

Nov 26, 1938 - Apr 4, 2005

Barbara J. Freel, a treasured soul whose life was a testament to love, faith and creativity, passed away on April 4, 2025, at the age of 86 in Michigan City, Indiana.

Born on Nov. 26, 1938, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Robert and Jean (Mosbach) Carpenter, Barbara's life was a testament to her enduring spirit and boundless compassion.

Barbara's passion for life was evident in her diverse interests and hobbies. In her younger years, Barbara was employed at Ben Franklin and served as a carhop at Bonnie Doon, bringing smiles to the faces of those she encountered. She also showcased her athleticism and spirit as a member of the Tumblers Club. She was a talented seamstress, making and mending clothes for her children, friends and neighbors. Throughout her life, Barbara found joy and purpose in her work; her hands were rarely still.

Barbara and her beloved husband of 26 years, the late Paul M. Freel, were longtime members of Mayflower Baptist Church in South Bend, Indiana, where they both found salvation and a spiritual home. Her faith was a beacon that guided her throughout her life and inspired those around her.

It was on their family farm in South Bend, with her children by her side, where her love for animals became evident; she raised and showed horses and Yorkshire terriers, and she never hesitated to help any animal in need, including the occasional raccoon. Barbara's leisure time was joyfully spent sewing, crocheting, and enjoying the great outdoors through camping, fishing and hunting.

Above all, Barbara's love for her grand and great-grandchildren knew no bounds. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and was a constant source of encouragement and support.

Barbara's love and legacy live on through her children, Rosalynn Freel-Krenkel, Dawn (Bernard Lemaitre) Kmak and James (Jessica) Freel; her daughter-in-law, Cynthia Freel; her grandchildren, Matthew, Kelly, Alex, Amber, Kaitlyn, James P., Rebekah, Kyle, Hannah, Jenna, Jonah, Liam, Luke and Logan; her great-grandchildren, Addison, Jax, Aurora and Juniper; brother, Robert Carpenter; and sister, Sharon VanDusen.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Paul; her son, Paul E. Freel; her grandson, Carl Para III; her brother, Daniel Carpenter; and her sister, Janice Cornelius.

Friends may visit with the family at Geisen-Carlisle Funeral Home, located at 613 Washington St. Michigan City, Indiana 46360, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 3 p.m. until the time of service at 5 p.m. with Pastor Jamie Constant, officiating. A private burial for the family will take place on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in Barbara's honor to the family. To view or sign Barbara's online guestbook, please visit carlislefh.com. 219-874-4214.

Published by La Porte County Herald-Dispatch on Apr. 8, 2025.

Barbara Jean Carpenter Freel (1938-2025) - Find a Grave Memorial

Sources: Legacy.com and FindAGrave.com

05/19/2025 EJS

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/lpheralddispatch/name/barbara-freel-obituary?id=58091334