Ronnie Freand
Jerseyville | Save
Ronnie L. Freand, 74, died at 7:19 p.m., Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at his home in Jerseyville.
He was born on July 20, 1952, in Carrollton, to the late Frederick Andrew and Tracy (Scott) Freand, Sr. Ronnie was born in Carrollton and raised in Jerseyville and remained there throughout his life, building a life centered around hard work, family and the friendships he made along the way.
In Ronnie’s early years, he worked for the railroad. He later started a career with Olin as a forklift operator for 10 years before retiring. For many years, Ronnie worked alongside his father and brothers in the family business, Fred Freand & Sons Construction. Working together was very much a family affair and became an important part of Ronnie’s working life.
Away from work, Ronnie enjoyed the simple things in life and, most especially, the company of those closest to him. He was a one-of-a-kind man whose love for the outdoors was a big part of who he was. He found happiness when camping, fishing, hunting, and mushroom hunting. He loved being outdoors and making memories along the way.
When he was not enjoying the outdoors, he could often be found watching drag racing or shooting pool. And when it came to pool, he was not just a player, he was a pool shark. He knew how to handle a pool cue and was always ready to show someone what he could do around the table. He loved the game, the competition, and the good times that came with it. Fishing was another favorite pastime, particularly when he was able to share it with his grandson, Xander. The two shared a special bond, and their time spent together fishing created memories that Ronnie treasured.
He never met a stranger, he was always ready with a wisecrack, and he was everybody’s “Freand.”
Though he may no longer be around the campfire, casting a line, walking through the woods, watching drag racing, or running the pool table, his stories, jokes, laughter, and memories will remain with us.
He will be deeply loved, greatly missed, and forever remembered.
He is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth Freand of Jerseyville; a son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Mandi (Healy) Motley of Elsah; three grandchildren, Xander, Meghan and Tanner; a sister, Rosie Woelfel of Jerseyville; and a brother, Michael Freand of Jerseyville.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Frederick “Junior” Freand; a brother-in-law, Bob Woelfel; and a grandson, Dylan Healy.
In accordance with Ronnie’s wishes, no public services will be held.
Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville has been entrusted with arrangements.
Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com.
Crawford Funeral Home
