Alan Ray Bawinkel, 66, of Freeport was born to eternal life on September 30, 2022 surrounded by his loving family.  He has been reunited with the love of his life and best friend, his wife Bonnie who passed on September 27th.  Al was born on November 9, 1955 in Freeport to Norma and Russell Bawinkel.  He grew up on the family farm in German Valley and farming was one of Al’s passions.  He graduated from Forreston High School in 1973 and attended Highland Community College and studied Business Management.  He married Bonnie Wright of Freeport on May 15, 1982 at Faith United Methodist Church.  Al was a proud member of and Captain at the Freeport Rural Fire Department for 36 years.  He lived out his passion for farming by working for Keith Hinrichs Family Farms for over 20 years.  He was known for taking sunset pictures from the combine and sharing them with family and friends.