Rebecca "Becky" Freeman

Rebecca "Becky" Freeman, 66, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, passed away peacefully on July 8 in her home.

Becky was born on March 28, 1958, in Brookings, South Dakota, to Bernadette (Gratz) and Merle Peterson. She spent her early years on a lively farm outside Estelline. Becky graduated from high school in 1976 and earned her master's degree in Speech Language Pathology from South Dakota University, embarking on a fulfilling career in education.

Becky discovered her passion for young minds in Fort Bridger, Wyoming, where she also met her husband, Dennis Freeman. They married on July 11, 1987, and enjoyed 37 years of devoted partnership. They spent most of their lives in Green River, Wyoming as educators who were active in the community. In 1988, their son Alexander was born, followed by their daughter Erin in 1993.

Despite having two children of her own, Becky nurtured countless others as if they were her own-adopting nephews, nieces, her children's friends and spouses, every variety of dogs, and thousands of students whom she loved unconditionally. Known for her infectious joy and lighthearted spirit, Becky brightened every room she entered with puns, snorts, parodies, and an unwavering zest for life. Her faith remained a cornerstone throughout her life, even in her final days. For all who knew her, Becky's presence was a bright light. Becky dedicated much of her career to Sweetwater County District No. 2, with Truman Elementary holding a special place in her heart. Her proudest accomplishment came on Valentine's Day in 2018, when she became a grandmother to Henry, with whom she shared an enduring bond.

Preceded in death by her brothers Robert and Bohn Peterson, her sister Elizabeth "Betty" Flowers, and her parents, Becky is survived by her beloved husband, Dennis Freeman; her children, Alexander and Sylvia Freeman, and Erin and Christopher Lindt; her cherished grandson, Henry Freeman; and her sisters Bonnie Fjerestad and Barb Bullock.

A rosary vigil will take place July 18 at 6 p.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. A funeral mass will take place July 19 at 2:30 p.m. at Holy Trinity, with a reception to follow. A celebration of life in Green River will be held at a later date.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Davis Hospice and CRMC Cancer Clinic.

"Love will be hard and it may end in heartbreak, but it will always be worth it." -C.S. Lewis