MARY FREEMAN Obituary

MARY GENEVIEVE FREEMAN 12/7/2024 Mary Genevieve Freeman (née Lelong) (67) died from a recurrence of Breast Cancer and associated complications. Known as Genevieve, she is survived by her husband, Peter Freeman; children Rachael (Adam) Levensohn, Marissa (Steve) Eanet, Shayna (Blake) Laidlaw, and Joshua Freeman; grandchildren Jay (3) and Michael (born 12/3/24) Levensohn, Mackenzie (15) and Reed (13) Laidlaw, Ama Luna (22) and Vela (18) Freeman and Ruby Shannon (2); and brothers James (Anne) Lelong and Patrick Lelong. Genevieve was born on July 11, 1957 in Nuremberg, Germany to US Army Lieutenant Colonel Robert and Elizabeth Lelong. She was raised in Kailua and attended Kailua High School ('75) and the University of Hawaii - Manoa (BA). She emanated Kailua Town's best qualities: passion for community, care for neighbors, and natural aloha and beauty. Her impact on the community was felt through her local business ownership and the family she raised in Kailua. A devoted wife and mother, Genevieve's love for her family was her greatest joy. She and her husband Peter's admiration of and dedication to each other was unwavering. In their early years of marriage, Genevieve and Peter mutually supported their careers in business and the United States Marine Corps, respectively. The two were true partners as they gracefully held one another through life's milestones. They were a team grounded in deep respect for one another. Their partnership continuously serves as a guidepost for their family and friends. Genevieve's children were shaped by her elegant and gracious role as a mother. Through small and grand gestures alike, she embodied all the traits of a mother that a child could wish for. Whether supporting their pursuits, volunteering at their schools, or sculpting their childhood memories, Genevieve was ever-present. She earned the title of "confidant" by always offering her listening ear, gentle encouragement, and graceful, maternal wisdom. She was, and will forever be, proof that a mother's love is infinite. Later in life, Genevieve proudly assumed the title: "Nana G." She unflinchingly embraced her grandchildren. She was and remains a gravitational force for her family who, in their heartbroken mourning, will continue to honor her irreplaceable passion and commitment to family in their own homes. Genevieve was a successful entrepreneur for nearly 40 years. Whether in her local business or her mainland partnerships, she made lasting impressions on her colleagues by infusing the Aloha Spirit and unfaltering integrity into all that she did. Her professional legacy is marked by decades of leadership that inspired countless other business owners, employees, clients, and partners. Beyond her business, she continued to pursue personal and professional growth by becoming a Certified Life Coach. Others found their inner strength through her effective coaching. She cemented her title as "guidepost" and was a beloved mentor and lifelong friend to all. She also demonstrated a stalwart dedication to girls' education through her support of Le Jardin, La Pietra, and the Huakailani School for Girls. In her welcoming home she ensured her family's connection to their Jewish heritage and community. Genevieve blended the spirit of aloha with the Jewish ways of "shalom" (peace). She will be remembered as a "gracious host" for the delicious meals she created. And yet, the dishes she shared were the side-show of the real nourishment: the wonderful way she made all her guests feel when with her in her home. Genevieve's impact radiates from Kailua, through Oahu, and across the Pacific through her legacy, family, and beyond. A private memorial and burial was held at Hawaii Memorial Park among family and many friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Susan G. Komen Foundation (Link: http://www.info-komen.org/goto/GenFreeman). Genevieve will be dearly missed by all who knew her, and will be remembered for her grace, kindness, intelligence, generosity, humor, elegance, and the lasting impact she had on everyone's life.