Mike DeFreeuw, Director, Marketing and Communications, recently retired after more than three decades of service to Northeastern. Mike began his career in 1987, soon after Whitley County REMC became Northeastern REMC.
During Mike’s tenure, he provided direction and strategic planning for all marketing plans, led the transition between print and digital marketing, oversaw a few rebrandings and contributed in countless other initiatives.
He also played a key role in the local community by serving on the board of directors at the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce. He also volunteered for many organizations including, most recently, Tim Tebow Foundation’s A Night to Shine, H.O.P.E. for Animals, Suicide Prevention & Bullying Awareness Banquet, Allen County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), Passages, Junior Achievement, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Mike was also a recipient of the 2018 Tom Taylor Award. This award is presented annually to an Indiana Electric Cooperative employee who has demonstrated excellence in leadership, attitude and commitment to the electric cooperative principles. "Mike is an outstanding example of an engaged community member who is willing to roll up his sleeves to make an impact not only within our electric cooperative, but also for the betterment of our community. Mike will be greatly missed, but we wish him all of the best in his retirement," said Eric Jung, CEO of Northeastern REMC.
Mike and his wife, Patti, look forward to spending more time with their grandchildren and traveling in the near future.