BOB FREEMAN Memoriam

In Loving Memory of BOB FREEMAN Robert "Bob" Lowe Freeman completed his well-lived life on June 7, 2021, at the age of 83 in Honolulu, Hawaii. Bob left this world the same way he traveled through it, surrounded by beloved family and friends. Three years later Bob is still very present in the lives of those who loved him. His life was one lived with true authenticity and a passion for the things he enjoyed and believed in. He was a tough but loving father, proudly frugal, brilliant. He was an inspiring teacher and mentor to many, a man of remarkable resilience, unwavering honesty and boundless love. His life was a testament to the power of determination, compassion, and an unyielding quest for knowledge and truth. Bob was born on March 3, 1938, in Passaic, New Jersey, to Ernest LeRoy and Charlotte (Lowe) Freeman. In 1947, his family moved to Southern California where he began working at his father's gas station at the age of twelve. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for cars, racing, machines and electronics. He thought outside the technological boxes and invented things like a portable radio that fit into a cigarette pack, decades before the invention of the Walkman. During his teens in the 50s, he built a Cadillac that could reach 120 mph which he raced and remained undefeated in the quarter mile at the dry lakes. Bob attended Culver City High School, Santa Monica Jr. College, Colorado College, and the University of Hawaii at Manoa. From 1960 to 1962, he proudly served as a Military Intelligence Coordinator in the US Army at Fort Ord, California. In 1963, he moved to Hawaii, working his way up from the beach and lively Waikiki Jungle of the 60s to his forever home atop Maunalani Heights in 1968. In 1971, Bob founded The Freeman Foundation, a non-profit school dedicated to teaching auto mechanics to disabled and disadvantaged individuals, offering them opportunities to build successful careers. In the following year, he established Mr. Sandman which initially involved sandblasting designs into sidewalks which can still be seen around Honolulu. Over the years, Mr. Sandman grew into the islands' premier source for all sandblasting equipment and services. Driven by Bob's vast collection of knowledge and interests, Mr. Sandman continued to expand far beyond sandblasting, specializing in industrial equipment rentals and sales, related products, and serving as a major distributor and servicer of air compressors. Through his business, Bob continued to provide second chances to those eager to learn and work hard. Known as "The Sandman," Bob's mechanical expertise and knowledge were widely recognized. His legacy is carried on by many long-time and loyal employees whom he considered family. He worked tirelessly, finally semi-retiring at the age of 80 to enjoy the fruits of his labor. Bob had many diverse interests which included restoring cars and motorcycles, most notably a 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 which he re-designed and built, much of it by hand. He wrote poetry, essays and editorial contributions. He enjoyed photography, teaching, sailing, ongoing home renovations, watching sunsets from his mountain top lanai, inventing things and spending time with his pets. He was known for his grand Thanksgiving dinners and his love of cooking. At 60 he learned to dance. At 80 he drove a dragster in Las Vegas, a long time dream. Bob lived a life full of purpose, love, and wisdom. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who had the privilege of knowing him. Bob is survived by his children, Brandie and Darryl, their mother Sue Reed, and his grandchildren, Cole, Malia, Kamuel and Kai. He is fondly remembered by his friends and his beloved companion, Bibi Pace of Honolulu. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Diane Micale. A celebration of Bob's life will be held on June 7, 2024, at 6 pm in Honolulu, marking the third anniversary of his passing. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend. For information and to RSVP, please visit https://www.greenvelope.com/event/bobs-pau-hana