Eugene “Gene” Freedman, a long-time Bayside resident and first-generation American, is celebrating his 100th birthday Thursday. Born on Nov. 7, 1924, to Russian immigrant parents who sought refuge in the United States to escape persecution, Freedman has led a life marked by dedication to family, community, and service.
A resident of Bayside, for over six decades, Freedman has stayed active and engaged in his community. He enjoys sports like golf, paddle tennis, and tennis and loves reading, often finishing a book a week. An avid sports fan, Freedman is known for his passion for basketball, football, and baseball and his interest in the U.S. Open and the Olympics.
Freedman’s roots trace back to the Bronx, where he was born and raised. He graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School in 1941 before briefly attending City College of New York. In March 1944, Freedman enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a rifleman in the 379th Infantry Regiment, 95th Division, fighting across Rhineland and Central Europe during WWII. His service earned him several honors, including the WWII Victory Medal, the American Theater Ribbon, the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with two Bronze Stars, and the Good Conduct Medal. After a year of service, he was honorably discharged in May 1945.
Following his service, Freedman joined his family in New York City’s Garment District, where he built a successful career. Rising through the ranks as a cutter, marker, grader, and pattern maker, he became a proud member of the International Ladies’ Garment Workers Union (ILGWU). He retired from the industry in 1986 after a career that reflected his dedication and skill.
Freedman met his wife of 75 years, Lynn, in Far Rockaway, where their romance began during a summer stay. The couple married in 1948, raised two daughters, and have cherished their growing family, which includes three granddaughters and two great-grandsons. Together, they traveled extensively, exploring Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and beyond.
As he reaches this milestone, Freedman’s family and friends celebrate a century of resilience, love, and a steadfast commitment to his family, community, and the country he served.
