Eric Dale Freel, 66, of Sabetha, Kansas passed away Thursday, October 11, 2018 at his Sabetha apartment.

He was born June 29, 1952 in Topeka, Kansas to Lawrence Dale and Edra Ruth (Young Faidley) Freel, Topeka school teachers. He graduated from Seaman High School in 1970 and went to trade school to learn small engine mechanics. Later, he was employed as a paramedic in Junction City.  Eric then resided in Basalt, Colorado and worked for a mining company. He later moved to New Mexico where he worked for the New Mexico Park Service.

After the death of his parents, he took over the family farm in Nemaha County. He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He learned leather working, arrow making and other skills.  Historical research was another of his passions and he acquired a large collection of oil lamps.  

He is survived by a brother, Mark A. Freel of Topeka, KS; a sister, Laurel (Bob) Riggin of Harveyville, KS; a niece, Lindsey Freel of Topeka, KS; nephews, Kevin and Kyle Riggin; and a great grandnephew, Harrison Jurgens.

A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Corning Community Center in Corning, Kansas. Inurnment will take place in the Corning Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha Fire Department, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com