In Memoriam: Donald Freiberg--A Remembrance

By Randall Caudle

Donald Herbert Freiberg
October 10, 1954 - September 4, 2011

I am sad to report that Donald passed away on Sunday, Sept. 4th due to cancer. His very touching memorial service, with fond memories & music by his family, friends, & co-workers was on Sunday, October 9th.

Donald is survived by his wife, Laura Ning Zhang Freiberg, & 3 young children.

Donald practiced immigration law in San Jose, CA for many years. Donald graduated from U.C. Berkeley in 1976 (undergrad) and from U.C. Davis Law School in 1986.

Donald was one of the attorneys instrumental in establishing the AILA Santa Clara Valley chapter and served as the AILA Santa Clara Valley chapter chair in 1993-1994 and again in 1999-2000. Donald served on various AILA committees, both locally and nationally.

I got to know Donald through his involvement with AILA Santa Clara Valley and I was honored to serve with Donald on the AILA National California Service Center (CSC) liaison committee. I spent a lot of time in airports with Donald, as we traveled between San Jose and Laguna Niguel often. I feel privileged to have been able to get to know Donald as a friend and a colleague.

Donald was one of those rare individuals that was always nice, no matter what the situation. Donald was funny and loved his family more than anything in the world. Donald had a sharp legal mind and was able to come up with creative solutions to difficult immigration issues & challenges.

Donald loved to travel and had been to many countries, including Iceland on one of his last trips. Donald acted in over 60 theater productions and was very involved in teaching kids about acting & the theater.

Should you wish, donations in Donald's memory may be made to: Friends of Palo Alto Children's Theatre, www.fopact.org.

If you would like to send a message to Donald's wife Laura, please send it to me and I will forward it on.