04 OCTOBER 00 | Carl Freel

Equipment Operator Carl Freel, who worked for the Richmond Field Station's maintenance/operations department, died Aug. 3, from complications related to an ear infection. He was 58.

Hired initially at the Seawater Conversion Lab, Freel spent his entire 31-year career at the Richmond Field Station. After the lab, he transferred to the maintenance/operations department, where he worked his way up to equipment operator.

Freel coordinated the Recreational Sports Facility's annual Toys for Tots drive and volunteered his unique Santa capabilities to many charities.

He served in the U.S. Navy and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, Clayton Valley, 3rd Ward. He enjoyed cars, volunteering as a secret Santa and riding his Harley. A native of Ceres, Calif., he spent his last 35 years as a resident of Concord.

Freel is survived by wife of 13 years, Dee Anne Freel; his sons John Steven, Carl Allen and Rocky; a daughter and son-in-law, Suzanne and Paul Farley; a brother and sister-in-law, Chris and Patty Freel; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Cathy and Allen Bellinghousen and Beverly and Lucky Bennett; nine grandchildren; eight nieces and nephews; and 14 great nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held Sept. 9, at Newhall Park, Concord. Donations may be made to Toys for Tots, 3225 Willow Pass Road, Concord, CA 94519.