LE ROY — Jennifer Nauertc has two goals for her upcoming trip to Topeka.
“I want to not only honor my dad, but also help raise awareness about Alzheimer’s, a horrible disease that has affected so many of our loved ones.”
Nauertc’s dad, Bill Freeman, died in December from Alzheimer’s disease. He was 84.
Freeman coached three different teams to Kansas high school football state championships: one in Le Roy, two in Osawatomie and five at Lawrence. His track teams also won state titles in 1989 and 1900.
Nauertc will testify before a Kansas House Transportation Committee to endorse an Alzheimer’s Awareness license plate. A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of such plates would go to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Locals are also coordinating efforts to raise awareness — and funds — to combat Alzheimer’s.
A “Paint the Stands Purple,” night at Southern Coffey County High School (formerly Le Roy High), is set for Feb. 19 when the Titans host Lebo High in basketball. Nauertc will give items away with each donation received.
She plans a similar venture next fall during football season, both at SCC and at Lawrence High.
A Burlington native, Freeman coached and taught physical education in Baxter Springs, Le Roy, Osawatomie, Parker Rural and Lawrence.
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.
Today would have been Freeman’s 85th birthday, his daughter noted.
License plate effort begins
