Melvin Edwin Freeman: October 7, 1948 – September 8, 2026

ST. HELENS- Melvin Edwin “Mel” Freeman passed away peacefully at his home in Ocean Park, Washington, on September 8, 2026, at the age of 77.

Mel was born October 7, 1948, in Portland, Oregon, to Leon and Sylvia Freeman. He was raised in Saint Helens, Oregon, and graduated from Saint Helens Senior High School in 1966. Shortly after graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving aboard U.S.S. Kearsarge during the Vietnam conflict.

Returning home to Saint Helens, Mel began his civilian career at the Boise Cascade paper mill in January of 1970. He remained there for 33 years until his retirement.

On July 13, 1973, Mel married Coramae Howell. They shared thirty-five years together until her passing in 2008.

Mel was an avid fisherman who found his greatest peace on the water. Salmon fishing was his particular passion, and he spent countless hours chasing a run, tending his gear, and sharing what he caught and what he knew with anyone willing to come along.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Sylvia, his brothers Ron and Steve, his beloved wife, Coramae, and his stepson Larry Howell. He is survived by his three stepsons and their wives, Steve and Peggy Howell, Tom and Patti Howell, and Mike and Carrie Howell.

A grave side service will be held at 12:00 noon, October 15th, at Columbia Memorial Gardens.  A celebration of life will be held later that day, at 2:00 pm, at the Elks Lodge in Saint Helens.