Michael Allen Freelove

Michael Freelove passed peacefully from this life on May 27, 2025, at his home in Ashland, KS.

He was born on October 13, 1946, in Albuquerque, NM, to Eric and Mae (Randall) Freelove. On August 11, 1967, in Dodge City, KS, he married Rita Moore of Ashland.

After graduating from high school in Cuba, NM, he attended Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO, where he became a member of the college rodeo team as a rough stock rider. After college, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served in various locations around the world. Upon discharge from the service, he spent four years as a partner in Local Jacks Construction alongside his father and brother, David.

In 1974, he relocated to Kansas with his wife, Rita, their daughter Maylene, and their son Gregg. In Kansas, he assisted his father-in-law on the family farm and later served as a law enforcement officer for the City of Ashland and Clark County for four years. He was elected as a Magistrate Judge in Clark County and served in that position for 32 years until his retirement. While serving as a Judge, Michael was instrumental in establishing the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) program in Southwest Kansas. He also officiated Junior and Senior High School football throughout the region for many years. Michael also served as a Boy Scout Master and was very active in the Ashland Christian Service Camp, where he served as a board member. Mike was a member of the Masonic Lodge for almost 60 years and was a Life Member of Ashland Lodge #277, Comanche Lodge #295, and Chama Lodge #17 in Cuba, NM.

Mike greatly enjoyed the time spent at the Freelove cabin in the mountains of northern New Mexico, watching the abundant wildlife and visiting with friends from both near and far. Fishing at nearby Coyote Creek was another favorite pastime while at the cabin. Mike also enjoyed woodworking of all kinds and baking.

He is survived by: his wife, Rita, of the home, and children, Maylene (Farron) Frost of Joliet, MT, and Gregg (Mandy) Freelove of Kismet, KS. Sisters Betty Davis of Tennessee and Sue Kirwin of Colorado, sister-in-law Mary Jane Freelove of Texas, grandchildren Chance Frost of Montana, and several step-grandchildren, including Emily (Alex) Wolking of Kansas, and Lelyn Chaffin of Kansas, several nephews and nieces including special co-cancer fighter Dawn Mathews of Texas a true and courageous fighter.

There will be no formal service; a private family service will be held at a later date. Memorials can be made to the Ashland Christian Service Camp in Ashland, KS.