BENKELMAN -- Freedia Mae Spencer, was born in rural Dundy County on Dec. 2, 1934, to Leon and Jaunita (Rose) Stamm.

She attended country school near her home until it was consolidated with Parks Public Schools, where she graduated in 1952, with honors as class valedictorian. The summer following graduation, Freedia attended classes in McCook where she earned her teaching degree. In the fall, she returned to Dundy County to teach.

In 1953, she married Kenneth Gardner and they made their home in rural Max. They had two boys who both died at birth and later adopted Allen Reed in 1958, and Rita Annette in 1962.

In 1976, Freedia and Kenneth divorced and in 1982, she married Don Spencer. They divorced in 1986.

Freedia began working at Jack's Supper Club in 1975, and in time, became the manager. She enjoyed being around people and would make a friend the moment they were seated at her table. Due to health reasons, she retired in 1998.

To fill her time, Freedia began collecting angels, tea pots, recipes and shaving mugs. She loved flowers and filled her home with them. She also enjoyed gardening, sewing, baking and visiting with friends and neighbors over a cup of coffee.

Freedia passed away peacefully in her Benkelman home on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007, at the age of 73.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Leon and Jaunita Stamm; two infant sons; sisters, Margaret Perry and Catherine Aryes; brother-in-law, Lynn Aryes; and nephews, Mike and Greg Bozarth.

Survivors include her son, Allen Gardner and wife, Cindy of Ciaro; daughter, Rita Saltzman and husband, Ronnie of Emerson; grandchildren, Natashia Stute and fiancé, Hans Houfek, Edward Gardner and Litton Stute; step-grandchildren, Nicole Rutar and husband, Jesse, Matt Saltzman and wife, Brandy, Ben Saltzman and Brandi Saltzman; great-grandchildren, Hadley and McKale Houfek; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate her life was today at Forch Funeral Chapel in Benkelman with Rev. Robert Sander officiating. Service concluded at the chapel, with a private inurnment taking place at a later time.

In lieu of usual remembrances it is suggested that memorials be given in Freedia's name to the Benkelman Public Library.

Arrangements are under the direction of Forch Funeral Chapel of Benkelman.