Andris Harry Freimanis

Andris Harry Freimanis, 84, passed away Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at his home in Alexander County.

He was born on July 7, 1938, in Liepaja, Latvia, to the late Herinim and Zelma T. Freimanis. During WWII, the family lived in Latvia. After his father was captured at work by Russian forces, Zelma, Sagita, and Andris lived in Germany and Belgium.

On December 13, 1949, they arrived in New York on the ship General M.G. Stewart sponsored by First Baptist Church in Gastonia. He attended schools in Latvia, Germany, Gastonia, and Charlotte. Andris was drafted into the United States Army on September 8, 1961, and served until September 6, 1963. His son, Mark, was born on May 3, 1963. Andris became a US Citizen on April 2, 1993. Andris worked for J.B. Ivey, Belk Stores, and Little Hardware in Charlotte until he retired in 2003.

Mr. Freimanis extensively traveled the south selling gifts and houseware. Andris was very active in building his and Mary’s home in Alexander County and moved in 2009. He loved the beach but was happy here in Alexander County. He loved his family, his country, the military, and the flag.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Those left to cherish the memories of Andris include his wife of 61 years, Mary Lee Freimanis; son, Mark; daughter-in-law, Lynette; sister, Sagita Norris; and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held Saturday, December 31, 2022, at East Taylorsville Baptist Church from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The funeral service will be Saturday, December 31, 2022, at East Taylorsville Baptist Church at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Mt. Hebron Baptist Church Cemetery. Rev. Jamie Steele will officiate.

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to a charity of your choice.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.