It is with great sadness that one of our own has passed away. Charter LAW member and dedicated friend to many, Michael D. Freitag, 72, of Ephrata, PA and formerly of Nassau County, NY, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2020 at Lancaster General Hospital. He was the loving husband of Lois M. (Kump) and son of the late Wilbur and Theresa (Rothermel) Freitag.
A dedicated family man, the sadness of his passing is countered by the remembrance of the many wonderful and important things he had accomplished, and his consistent positive support for all members regardless of experience or technical ability. In six years knowing Mike, I never saw him without a smile and a kind word, and his help at the LAW Annual Picnic was boundless.
Mike came to every meeting, often arriving early to help with setup and staying late to help clean up. He made numerous contributions to the club over the years, in expertise, equipment and materials.
Mike had an eye for creating great turned art pieces in stock most of us would toss into the burn pile. A true gentleman, he will be greatly missed.
Mike was born in Jamaica, Queens, NY and was a longtime resident of Nassau County, NY. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and worked for Verizon as a Cable Splicer for 32 years. Michael and Lois have been residents of Ephrata since 2004.
Mike liked to work with his hands and fix anything that needed to be repaired. He was a self-taught woodworker and loved doing scroll saw and lathe work in his home woodshop. He also enjoyed music and playing the guitar.
In addition to his wife, Lois, he is survived by a son, Karl M. Freitag, husband of Jessica, a brother, Roy Freitag, and a sister, Dottie Rollie, wife of Charles.
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and Jack.
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. Mike always upbeat and positive even in the worst of times. I enjoyed his company and looked forward to seeing him. Always the optimist.
Great friend,enjoyed the visits with Mike & Lois at the shop at our house. Great coffee and donuts.
Mike was one of the best members and friend. He was always ready to help when there was a need. He was very talented and did some amazing work. He will be missed.