Frank "Coach" Michael Freeman

Mike was born to Marjorie Lynch and Frank Warren Freeman in Los Angeles, California, the second of two children. Preceded in death by both parents and his older sister, Jeannie Barker, Mike passed away peacefully in company of the love of his life, Vicki Filgas Trevino after many years fighting the challenges of oral aphasia and Alzheimer's. He is survived by Vicki and her children, his niece and nephew, Elizabeth Barker, Chuck Barker, and half-sister, MaryAnn Bowen.

Mike attended school in Dallas, Texas where his mother lived, and later lived with his father in Fresno, California where he attended McLane High School. He excelled in football, wrestling and track, and went on to attend Fresno City College and Fresno State College where he was coached by Daryl Lamonica. After graduating from Fresno State in 1967, Mike went on to be selected to play on the National All-Star Football Team. He was drafted in the NFL by the Vikings, and later picked up by the Atlanta Falcons where he played CB-S, 1968, 1969, 1970 and 1971.

The next chapter of his life, he returned to Fresno, obtained his teaching credential from Fresno State and coached football at both San Joaquin Memorial and Clovis High School. He taught PE and math at Kastner Middle School for 32 years. The last chapter of his life, after retirement, he became quite a magician, a builder, and a farmer. He met Vicki, and they made a life together on their 30 acre farm in Selma. They traveled the world and had adventures wherever they went. They worked side by side, danced every night, played pickleball, laughed and enjoyed life! He was an inspiration to many young athletes, bold and strong, kind and gentle. “O Love . . . .So long as you can love!” (Frank Liszt) Mike will be forever loved.

Our thanks and praise to the staff at Fresno Community Hospital, the Palliative Team, Dr. Lee and therapists at Welbe health, Hinds Hospice, and our many friends who have helped through this final journey.

A Holy Mass to be said in his honor at St. Katherine’s Mission Church in Del Rey on Carmel and Morro St. at 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life at his home, 12100 E. Floral St., Selma, at 12:30, both on January 10, 2025.