Dear Editor,

One of my very dearest friends moved away last weekend. Larry Freeman, longtime coach-of-all-sports at Neponset High School, moved from this world to the next. In my Protestant thoughts, I firmly believe Larry, a faithful Catholic, moved to Heaven. I’m sure I speak for many when I say he was the most beloved teacher in their lifetime. Why?

Just like any other coach, Coach Larry could cuss and yell at players who goofed; he could indulge in some extra-curricular activities that he probably mentioned in Confession; he could grumble in the faculty room about irritating students, wages, long bus rides from night games—you fellow teachers know how much steam gets ejected in the faculty room. But I never once knew him to express hatred or malice toward any student. Or anybody at all. Larry was kind, generous, humorous—fun to be around. He liked people.

Larry and I started our teaching careers the same day in the same school in 1961. I know that he has been a good influence on so many lives, including mine. I’m glad that we were friends from that very first day.

Have a good trip, Larry.

Carol Blake Gerrond
Kewanee, Ill.

The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The Kewanee Voice.