Ronald James Freeman

Ronald James Freeman, age 65, of Albert Lea MN, passed away peacefully on April 19th 2026. He was born on October 17th, 1960 in Parkston, SD to James and Marlys Freeman.

Ron grew up in Mitchell, SD and played a variety of high school sports including track, basketball, and football. He was also known for his impressive afro haircut. He graduated from Mitchell HS in 1979 and started a career in retail at Herberger’s Department Store, where he worked his way up to store manager. His career brought him all around the Midwest, managing stores in Rapid City, SD, Hastings, NE, Albert Lea, MN, Beaver Dam, WI and finally back to Albert Lea, MN. In 2001, Ron moved into entrepreneurship and purchased Fountain Warehouse Liquor. He owned and operated the store until his retirement.

In 1980, he married his former spouse Dawn Fitzler and together they started a family. Ron was a devoted father to his son, Tyler, and daughter, Jill. His greatest joy came from being “Grandpa” to Asher Freeman, Hayden, and Lukas Larson. His family meant everything to him, and he showed it through his constant support, his pride in their accomplishments, and the love he carried for them every day.

Outside of work, Ron enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins and Vikings, spending time with his family and the many friends he made along the way. He especially loved playing golf where he made life-long friends at the local golf clubs.

He spent his final years at Good Samaritan Society in Albert Lea, where he became a bit of a local celebrity. Known for his humor, sharp sarcasm, and the nicknames he gave the staff, he brought laughter to those around him. His children, Tyler and Jill, extend their heartfelt thanks to the Good Samaritan staff for the care, kindness, and dignity they showed him.

Ron is survived by his children Tyler (Emily) Freeman and Jill (Randy) Larson; his grandchildren Asher Freeman, and Hayden and Lukas Larson; his brothers Bob (Judy) Freeman and Dan (Dana) Freeman as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father James Freeman, mother Marlys Freeman (Thelen), and his beloved dog Ollie.

A visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00PM, on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services. To honor his love for the Minnesota Twins, the family invites guests to wear Twins apparel to the visitation.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 11:00AM at Crossroads Church in Albert Lea, with a visitation beginning one hour prior. Lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Good Samaritan Foundation, 75507 240th St, Albert Lea, MN 56007 or to St. Croix Hospice, 2580 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea, MN 56007.

Ron will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his quick wit, sarcastic humor, and bringing happiness and joy to all of those around him.