BURLINGTON — Bill Freeman, one of Kansas’ pre-eminent coaching legends who won his first football title in Le Roy, died Friday at the age of 84.
Freeman suffered from Alzheimer’s disease in recent years, and had been in a Burlington hospice facility.
A Burlington native, Freeman coached and taught physical education in Baxter Springs, Le Roy, Osawatomie, Parker Rural and Lawrence.
His first state football title came at Le Roy High School.
He won two more at Osawatomie before building a dynasty in Lawrence, where his teams played in 10 consecutive Class 6A state championships from 1986 to 1995, winning five titles.
He also coached two Lawrence track and field teams to state titles.
Coach Freeman was enshrined in the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.
Following his retirement, Freeman moved back to Le Roy, where he owned First National Bank of Le Roy. He also served as Le Roy mayor for 21 years.
Freeman is survived by his wife of 51 years, Joan; two children and three grandchildren.
Funeral services were today in Le Roy.
KS football legend dies at 84
