She was love in action.
Pauline Rose Freer, 82, of Richmond, passed away peacefully at Marwood Manor on July 17, 2025. She was born on Nov. 5, 1942 in Richmond to Helen and Julius Abraham, and was a life-long resident of the community.
Family meant everything to Pauline. She adored her grandchildren and was the heart of her family—the hub that bound them together.
A lifelong nurse, Pauline was always proud to say she graduated from Grace College School of Nursing. She worked for many years as a nurse at Medilodge in Richmond, where her compassion and gentle spirit touched so many lives.
Caring for others wasn’t just a job for Pauline—it was at the heart of who she was. That spirit, combined with her upbringing as a Richmond farm girl, helped shape her quiet determination and unwavering sense of purpose.
Pauline embraced simple things in life: Fairs, carnivals, and regular trips to the Armada Flea Market. She had a deep love for her flowers and gardens as well. But she was happiest when people stopped by for coffee on her front porch. Her home was always open.
Her “curiosity,” kindness, and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She made people feel welcomed, seen, and loved.
Pauline is survived by:
Children: Carrie Freer-Rasmusson of Escanaba; Holly (Tom) Schafke of Eben Junction; Cindy (Robert) Morency of Yale; and honorary daughter Diane (Herb) Paling of Memphis.
Grandchildren: Nicole Gildner of Grayling; Andrew (Britni) Barshaw of Frederic; Ted (Paige) Morency of Jeddo; Jarod Morency of Croswell; Joseph (Melissa) Schafke of Rapid River; and Carli (Marius) Alberts of Wadhams
Great-grandchildren: Hayley Brown, RaeAnna Brown, Nebraska Schafke, Riley Casken, Jaxon Schafke, Hunter Morency, Walker Morency, Thomas Alberts and Cain Barshaw,
Great-great grandchildren: Izabella (Effie)Woodard and Xzavior Brown.
Pauline was predeceased by: Brothers Marvin (Elaine) Abraham, and George Abraham; Sister Rita (Noel) Smith; Parents Helen and Julius Abraham; and Grandson Tyler Brown.
Pauline’s family would like to thank the staff at Marwood Manor for taking such good care of their mom.
Visitation is Wednesday at Kaatz Funderal Home in Richmond from 2-8 p.m. Funeral is Thursday at St. Augustine’s Church in Richmond at 10:30 a.m.
