It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Freedman Seating Company Chairman, Gerald “Jerry” Freedman. He left us peacefully, surrounded by those he loved.
Jerry was a remarkable leader who inspired Freedman’s core values of integrity, community, pride and ownership. His unwavering commitment to these principles shaped not only the company but also the lives of those who had the privilege to work with him. He believed that their work makes a difference, and under his guidance, Freedman achieved remarkable milestones.
Over the course of more than 65 years with the company, Jerry revitalized the family legacy, creating a welcoming environment for both customers and employees. His ingenuity and unwavering commitment inspired all who worked with him, fostering a sense of unity and purpose that resonated throughout the company. As an Engineer, President, CEO, and Chairman, Jerry developed new products and patented technologies that would lay a foundation for Freedman Seating to become North America’s leading supplier of passenger seating solutions into the next generation.
The Freedman and Cohen Families and everyone at Freedman Seating Company truly appreciates your thoughts and condolences.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, www.cancer.org or JARC Training Jane Addams Resource Corporation, 4432 N. Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago, IL 60640, www.jarctraining.org.
Freedman Seating Company is one of Chicago’s largest manufacturing companies, headquartered at 4545 W. Augusta Blvd. bordering the Humboldt Park and Austin neighborhoods. Celebrating 130 in business, Freedman is the leading supplier of commercial and transportation seating in North America, building products for customers like CTA, Pace, UPS and more. Freedman proudly employees 750 people, many of whom live in our community.