Freddie Vleer, 65, of Oriskany Falls, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2015 at home surrounded by family and friends, due to lung cancer.
He was born June 5, 1949 in Middletown, NY, a son of William and Jane DeVries Vleer and received his education in Goshen schools. On July 30, 1976, Freddie married Norma M. Busby in Clinton. Freddie developed a love of the outdoors while farming his land. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. His family, and especially his grandchildren, were a huge source of pride. Freddie was a frequent patron of the Utica-Rome Speedway, and even drag raced there years ago. As a 15-year member and coach of the Solsville Hotel softball team, he forged lasting relationships. The Hamilton Co-ed Softball League thought so much of Freddie that they named their year-end competition the Freddie Vleer Tournament.
Freddie was an active member of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) at Post 232 in Franklin Springs. He was the SAL treasurer and worked at the Legion as a part-time bartender. He enjoyed going to breakfast at the diner in Deansboro and visiting with people from the community.
Freddie is survived by his wife, Norma; daughter Tisha (Gerry) Elliott; grandchildren, Joshua, Jaelyn and Lily; mother, Jane; sister, Aline (Rick) Tompkins; niece, Nancy (Robert) Adkins; nephews, Michael and Ricky (Kara) Tompkins; great-nephew, Reid; sister-in-law, Sonja Vleer; adopted family Josh Andrews and Frank Eckrich; as well as many friends. He was predeceased by his father, William.
In keeping with Freddie’s wishes, there will not be any services. A Life Celebration will be held on the “Hill” at Noon on June 6, 2015.
Donations to Hospice and Palliative Care in Freddie’s name would be appreciated.
Lastly, a message from him and his family, “STOP SMOKING!”
Arrangements have been entrusted to Burgess & Tedesco Funeral Home, 210 E. Main St., Waterville, NY.