Melba E. Freebolin

Melba E. Freebolin, age 91, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Chicago, IL, completed her earthly journey on July 31, 2024, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Melba’s life, her Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 225 West 10^th Street in Dubuque, with Pastor Kaity Kemp officiating.  Family and friends of Melba are invited to join in fellowship for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Entombment will be in the First Congregational United Church of Christ Mausoleum.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Melba’s family. 

Melba was born on May 19, 1933, in Oak Park, IL, a daughter to Oscar and Elizabeth (Edwards) Frick. She was raised to possess a strong devotion to family which she continued to carry proudly throughout her entire life.  Melba also had a natural ability to teach others and meet them right where they were in all circumstances.  She was an elementary school teacher for many years, but eventually Melba found her greatest joy was to be found in devoting her time and talents with the blind society.  She made many wonderful friends and built long-lasting relationships along the way and always understood that her impact on the world around her was all so real and very tangible.   

Melba enjoyed her time away from work as well and over the years always found time to fit traveling and camping with her loved ones into her busy schedule. Whether it was touring out west, or simply settling into a more local campground for the weekend, Melba treasured the downtime while surrounded by those who were dear to her heart.  She was also blessed with a little time to spend with her cross stitch needle in hand and a few of her beautiful creations remain today to help those left behind to remember the quiet and simple moments when Melba found both contentment and joy. She will also be fondly remembered for her love of music playing in the background whenever possible.  Too much Johnny Cash was never going to be an issue and any chance to relax and refresh the day was always a welcomed event.  Melba was always fun to be with. She was humorous and was always there for a good laugh. We are going to miss our dear sweet Melba’s physical presence in our daily lives moving forward, but we know that she fought the good fight and her eternal rewards were merely awaiting her earthly body to surrender her brilliant soul over to the Lord’s hands.  Thank you, Melba, for leading by example, leaving behind a legacy of love, and for always reminding us that family and friends are truly a gift in this life and to be appreciated and honored at every opportunity.  May the Lord bless you and keep you in His grace-filled arms until we meet again.    

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Melba include, 

her loving son, 

Fredrick “Fred” (Jill) Freebolin, Dubuque, IA; 

her adored granddaughter, 

McKenna (fiancé Anthony “Tony” Griebel) Freebolin, Bellevue, IA;

her nieces,

Marcia and Maureen Wilsey;

her nephew,

Marcus (Kathy Ocher) Wilsey;

her grandnieces,

Jenna Brown and Dana (Chris) Bokhari;

her grandnephew, Zachary Brewer; 

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors. 

Melba was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, James Frick; and her sister, Elizabeth (Jack) Wilsey. 

Melba’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor and Care Initiatives Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care. 

Online condolences may be shared with Melba’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com