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Freeman Blade Jr.

June 29, 1953 - September 22, 2021
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Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service
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Susan Palmer
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Winnifred Lange
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Al Stokes Sr
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Al Stokes Sr
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Al Stokes Sr
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Joe and Sharon Jaksic
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Darcel
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Cheryl
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Nadia Williams Light a candle
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Flowers & Gifts

Arrangements starting at $35

Visitation
Calhoun Funeral Home Rockside Road
23000 Rockside Rd.
Bedford Heights, OH 44146
440-232-9758 | Map
Friday 10/8, 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m.

Service
Providence Life Development Center
24111 Rockwell Drive
Euclid, Ohio 44117
Saturday 10/9, 11:00 am
Wake: 10:00 a.m.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to 501(C)(3) tax-exempt Spheres of Excellence, c/o 13940 Cedar Road, Suite 234, University Heights, OH 44118, to continue the legacy. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/freeman-blade-92802276.

Freeman Blade Jr., went home to be with the Lord on September 22, 2021. Predeceased by Freeman and Blanche Blade Freeman leaves to cherish his wonderful memory and legacy a host of family and friends including his loving wife Deborah Gooden Blade; brothers J.C. Blade and Jerry Blade; sister-in-law Dawn Zachary; children/stepchildren Isaiah Veal (wifeContinue Reading

Kit Vercella left a message on March 27, 2023:
I remember when Freeman played for the Anchorage Northern Knights in Alaska. He was the favorite player for our family. We are so sorry to hear that he has passed. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Susan Palmer left a message on January 17, 2023:
A beautiful man who had a remarkable career in the sport. Always thoughtful and kind he will not be forgotten.Safe journey my friend.
Scott Adell left a message on January 14, 2023:
I was honored to have met Freeman Blade when he came to live with me and my family while he played for the Wyoming Wildcatter’s CBA basketball team in Casper, WY. I was only 16 years old and he was 33 He changed my outlook on life and gave me a strong role model to follow. I have never met such an uplifting man in my life to this day. He taught me about basketball and life and how Jesus gave him strength. He took me to practices where he never lost a free throw challenge. He would say when you get a free shot how can you miss! He didn’t miss. Will miss him, but I know we will see him again. My father passed away in 2011 so it is amazing that they are together both coaches of basketball. I served 22 years in law enforcement and used Freeman’s guide and wisdom to get through. And now work in the medical field. Love to his family and those he touched. God bless.
Dick Robbins left a message on May 9, 2022:
Played basketball with Freeman for two years at Anderson University…….. great teammate and person……. Wanted to get together brother…. We still will just got to wait a bit. May God bless all your family. Dick
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Richard Peltier left a message on March 14, 2022:
Very sorry to hear about the passing of this wonderful man. I lost track of him years ago but never forgot about him. I worked with him at a restaurant in my home town, Billings Montana way back in his younger days. We had a lot of fun, he had a great sense of humor and I remember watching him play for the Yellowjackets. He will be missed.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Roslyn Lane-Clark left a message on October 28, 2021:
My deepest condolences to the Family of Freeman. Freeman was a friend of my Mom Ernestine Lane so many many years ago. I often wondered how he was doing and where he moved too, but to now see that he has passed. My condolences to his wife and family.
Ruben Nieves left a message on October 10, 2021:
As Director of Training at Positive Coaching Alliance, I am so grateful that Freeman shared his personal magic with so many coaches, athletes and sports parents through our workshops. He will be missed throughout our community. On a personal level, I am grateful to have had Freeman as a model for how to live a life full of love, giving and impact. I hope the memories of this beautiful human being will bring all his family and friends comfort and even joy as Freeman's soul moves on!
Winnifred Lange left a message on October 10, 2021:
In memory of Freeman Blade Jr., Winnifred Lange lit a candle
Shirley Herndon left a message on October 9, 2021:
My sincere heartfelt love and sympathy.. A super young man, I enjoyed him throughout his teenage years. Fun, very intelligent and all around great person. God Bless You, Jerry, Beautiful Darnell, Family and Friends.. Always Love ❤️
Al Stokes Sr left a message on October 8, 2021:
Oh God I am stunned! I just heard of Freeman's passing! Freeman was class personified. I don't remember who I met him through, I just know that the day he stepped foot into the gym at the Hillctrest YMCA, I had a friend for life. For years to come, Freeman made a lasting impression on me and all of the players/kids he came in contact with. Freeman was more than a Coach, he was an ambassador, he was a gentleman and a friend to all. Love you Coach
Al Stokes Sr left a message on October 8, 2021:
Oh God I am stunned! I just heard of Freeman's passing! Freeman was class personified. I don't remember who I met him through, I just know that the day he stepped foot into the gym at the Hillctrest YMCA, I had a friend for life. For years to come, Freeman made a lasting impression on me and all of the players/kids he came in contact with. Freeman was more than a Coach, he was an ambassador, he was a gentleman and a friend to all. Love you Coach
Al Stokes Sr left a message on October 8, 2021:
Oh God I am stunned! I just heard of Freeman's passing! Freeman was class personified. I don't remember who I met him through, I just know that the day he stepped foot into the gym at the Hillctrest YMCA, I had a friend for life. For years to come, Freeman made a lasting impression on me and all of the players/kids he came in contact with. Freeman was more than a Coach, he was an ambassador, he was a gentleman and a friend to all. Love you Coach
Joe and Sharon Jaksic left a message on October 8, 2021:
Our condolences and prayers go out to the Blade family through these tough times losing a great husband, brother, stepfather, in-law, uncle, and cousin. His new home will be peaceful and everything will be wonderful seeing Jesus!
Darcel left a message on October 7, 2021:
You be will missed knowing you were a man who lived his life with joy of doing what he loved to do - Basketball. He was able to share his love and passion with other that wanted to prefect their game
Ann h Zaprazny left a message on October 6, 2021:
Freeman was a bright light, an inspiration to others. I met Freeman through the Positive Coaching Alliance. He was so welcoming. His enthusiasm for youth and for helping others was contagious. May fond memories provide you comfort during your time of sadness. Fondly, Ann Zaprazny
Cindy Krajcirik left a message on October 6, 2021:
He was a great man! We knew him from AAU. My boys will always remember his life lessons. You are all in my prayers. He will truly be missed by many people. Love, The Krajcirik’s
Cheryl left a message on October 5, 2021:
May beautiful memories bring you peace during this difficult time.Just know I'm here for you always.
Donna M. Zachary left a message on October 5, 2021:
Freeman will always be in the hearts and minds of all who loved and knew him. May God give you and your family that peace that surpasses all understanding!! Your loving Cuz, Donna
Wanda & Lankford left a message on October 5, 2021:
Our ? goes out to Coach Blade’s wife Deborah & family. May God comfort you all during this most difficult time. Just know his memory will live on in all of Lives and Hearts “Forever” because of the abundance of Love and Caring personality he gave and showed all who came in contact with him, Especially his Basketball Girls and Boys. My nephew: Laquan’s ? training classes under Coach was over years ago but Laquan never stopped going to coach training classes because he Loved being in his presence ❤️ But as we struggle with this heartbreaking Loss: We are reminded of God's words Isaiah 57: 1-2 Good People pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come. For those who follow godly path will REST IN PEACE when they die. ❤️
Wanda & Lankford left a message on October 5, 2021:
Our ? goes out to Coach Blade’s wife Deborah & family. May God comfort you all during this most difficult time. Just know his memory will live on in all of Lives and Hearts “Forever” because of the abundance of Love and Caring personality he gave and showed all who came in contact with him, Especially his Basketball Girls and Boys. My nephew: Laquan’s ? training classes under Coach was over years ago but Laquan never stopped going to coach training classes because he Loved being in his presence ❤️ But as we struggle with this heartbreaking Loss: We are reminded of God's words Isaiah 57: 1-2 Good People pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come. For those who follow godly path will REST IN PEACE when they die. ❤️
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Joe C Redrick Sr left a message on October 5, 2021:
All Prayers go out to the Blade Family, RIH , I will never forget the man (Freeman Blade)
Barbara Salata, Walsh Jesuit HS left a message on October 5, 2021:
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Blade family. Freeman was an exceptional man who touched the lives of so many young people with his vibrant and inspirational message. Many thanks for sharing him with us. He was truly a man for others.
Jared Shetzer left a message on October 4, 2021:
Condolences to Coach Blade’s loved ones. Freeman was the best kind of man; one who was a true servant leader to so many.
Jared Shetzer left a message on October 4, 2021:
Condolences to Coach Blade’s loved ones. Freeman was the best kind of man; one who was a true servant leader to so many.
Kevin Michael McMullen left a message on October 4, 2021:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. Freeman was a great person who loved to help those around him. I saw first-hand as he worked with both of my boys when they were younger on the basketball court and the good work he did as a counselor with Positive Coaching Alliance. His enthusiasm and positive attitude made a difference in the lives of all those around him.
Louie Overstreet, Ph.D., P.E. left a message on October 4, 2021:
A truly well respected and decent human being. I met Freeman in the 1970s in Anchorage Alaska. Best wishes to his family.
Pete Peterson left a message on October 4, 2021:
40 years ago this past August 15 Freeman honored me by serving as my best man in Anchorage, Alaska. It is my pleasure that we have been able to remain friends throughout the years. To say that Freeman Blade is a class human being, in every respect, is to understate the fact. I am honored, and I am humbled that a man of Freeman’a character considered my wife and I his friends. Pam and I believe that Freeman Blade Jr. is absolutely the salt of the earth. Freeman will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
Nadia Williams left a message on October 4, 2021:
You were a great man! Your influence and presence in the world will be felt always. Condolences to your wife, family, and to all those who you mentored throughout the years. ?
Hubert Brandon left a message on October 4, 2021:
Freeman was my teammate my friend and my brother for over 50 years and I will always cherish our time together and pray that we will see each other again in God’s loving arms where I know you are this day. Love Hubie
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Judge Anita Laster Mays left a message on October 4, 2021:
I thank you for taking my sons in as if they were yours and training them. You were a coach and mentor to them. Thanks for the laughs during basketball and time spent in church. May God continue to bless your family. Rest in Peace Coach.
condolence-image Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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