James Anthony Freda

James Anthony Freda, 84, passed away after a brief illness on December 17, 2015 at his home in Fallbrook, Calif. Jim was born in Newark, N.J. on August 28, 1931 to Nicolas and Melinda Freda. He graduated from Barringer High School and Montclair State College and then served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War as a 1st Lieutenant.

After his discharge, Jim taught school in Newark while attending Columbia Teachers College in New York City, earning an MA degree in school administration. While stationed in Camp Pendleton, Jim fell in love with California and made his way back to teach, administer, and direct various educational organizations and to earn his Ph.D from U.S. International University, San Diego.

Jim was assistant superintendent of the Lancaster School District, an adjunct professor at California State University L.A, and special projects evaluator in the Paramount Unified School District prior to his retirement to Fallbrook.

Jim was a resident of Fallbrook for 23 years and an avid volunteer for the Fallbrook Land Conservancy, planting trees, supervising Americorp volunteers, and writing grants. He was instrumental in restoring and erecting an old windmill which is now the landmark of the conservancy’s headquarters.

Jim is survived by his wife of 58 years, Marjorie; his son Jay and wife Milan of Yorba Linda and granddaughters Angela and Sara Freda. He was predeceased by daughter Andrea of San Francisco. His internment will take place at Miramar Military Cemetery, and a memorial of his life will take place at a later date.