William Nathaniel “Wild Bill” Freeman, 76, passed away at his home in Drewsey on June 3.

He was born March 11, 1940, in Kent, Wash., to Jim and Bernie Freeman.  His birth was followed in two years by a sister, Coralee. The family lived in various places throughout his childhood before finally settling in Drewsey in 1952. He attended Crane Union High School, but before graduating, he moved to Portland to pursue his interest in music. He later joined the Army where he obtained his GED. He was a talented welder and mechanic, and these occupations took him many places throughout the western United States.

He was one of the original members of the local band, “The Daybreakers,” which included Norman and Dorman Miller, Steve Marker, and Raymond Dunten. Throughout the years, he continued with his pursuit of music anywhere and everywhere.

Bill was an extremely intelligent man who will be remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor and love of adult libations.

He is survived by wife, Carol, of Drewsey; son, Joe Freeman of Portland; daughter, Samantha Landon, and husband, Kelly of Burns; granddaughter, Parker Landon; sister, Coralee Williams of Juntura; stepdaughter, Gena Lombardo, and husband, Keith of Marshville, N.C., and their children; stepson, Shaun Brown of Turner; brother-in-law, Verl Miller of La Grande; numerous nieces, nephews, and many lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Bernie Freeman.

Donations may be made to the Drewsey Cemetery Fund. His friends and family would like to invite everyone to a memorial service and potluck at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 25, at the Drewsey Community Hall.