James Robert Freund

December 24, 1939 - November 12, 2020

James Robert Freund (aka Jim), passed away peacefully in his home on November 12, 2020, surrounded by loved ones singing and sharing words of love. As family and friends travelled or joined virtually to say their goodbyes, Jim said with a smile “Not everyone gets a party before they go” and “this is the best day of my life”. Jim was born on December 24, 1939 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Alice Williams and Albinus (Bud) Freund. He is survived by his sister Alice Ann Coleman, with whom he shared a special bond. Together they shared many adventures. Jim lived 80 full years. He married his wife who survives him, Virginia (Gini) Matczak on August 5, 1961. Jim and Gini spent an impressive 59 years together raising a wonderful family and exploring life together in both Pennsylvania and Connecticut, ultimately retiring to their Floridian paradise with warmth, sunshine, and a stunning lakefront view. Jim attended both Lehigh and Drexel for Engineering and went on to pursue multiple careers in plastics manufacturing, insurance, computers, software development and sales/management. Jim was a jack of all trades and master of all. Jim was extremely intelligent and could design, make, fix anything and do it artfully with impeccable attention to detail. He was the “Cake Boss” of the Freund Family, creating many beautiful cakes and Gingerbread houses. Jim had several passions including: sailing, woodworking, sports and music to name a few. He was able to fulfill his musical passion, sharing his voice with many, as he performed with several musical groups over the last decade. From choral to rock groups, Jim charmed many with his boyish smile and voice that could rival the best of crooners. Jim’s most cherished piece was his rendition of “Scotch and Soda”. According to Jim, he was “Living the Dream”. While Jim had many interests and hobbies, nothing was more important to him than family who knew him best as “Popster”. He was a positive and constant presence in all of their lives. Jim leaves behind his 3 children, Cheryl Kimmel (Robert Kimmel, MD), Michele Canino (Michael Canino), and James Freund Jr. (Kathryn Mayberry); his 7 grandchildren, Robert (Mikal-lyn), Christopher (Elyse Leren), Elyse, Christian, Caterina, James and Maxwell; his 2 step-grandchildren Morgan and Joseph and his 2 great-grandchildren, Vera and Elle. Grandfathering was by far one of his most finely tuned skills. Jim was an extraordinary human who brought an immeasurable amount of joy to every single person he met. He had lots of wonderful friends and he cherished every one of them. His most notable attribute came from his heart in showing others how to love and to be loved. His presence will be greatly missed by all. Funeral Services will be held at 10AM on November 24, 2020, St. John the Divine Episcopal Church, 1015 Del Webb Boulevard East, Sun City Center, 33573.