July 4, 1938 - September 12, 2023
Robert (Bob) Howard French, 85, of Bradenton, Florida passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.
Born July 4, 1938 in Massena NY, son of Howard and Malvina French (Filion). Bob bid farewell to his bride of 63 years Carmel French (Fenton) in 2019, with the promise that they would be "Together Again."
He is survived by his 7 children; Penny Dittl (Kurt) of Brantingham, NY, Ricky French (Nancy) of Bend, OR, Randy French (Nan) of Calais, ME, Michael French (Stacey) of Lowville, NY, Joel French (Ronda) of Bradenton, FL, Julie Reinhardt (Don) of Palmetto, FL, and Jody French of Bradenton, FL; 22 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his two oldest children; Tammy and Bobby Jr. Bob is also survived by one sister, Brenda Clark (Jerry); and one brother, Raymond French (Mary); and is predeceased by his brother, Ronald French.
Bob's second love was music. As a self-taught musician and without the ability to read a single note of music, he was proficient on the fiddle, guitar and keyboard, and could even hold his own on the banjo. In his later years, Bob spent countless hours playing and recording tunes to share with his children and grandchildren, especially those who lived across the miles, and those who also shared his love for music. Bob was a man of many other talents.
He began his adult life as an EOD specialist in the U.S. Army. After 3 years, he was honorably discharged and became a skilled carpenter by trade. For most of his adult life, he worked in maintenance for both county government and private entities. Bob was also a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose where he served in several positions of leadership.
A Graveside Service with military honors will be held on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023 at 12:30 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery where he will finally fulfill his promise to his beloved wife and be "Together Again."
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be given to Tidewell Hospice of Bradenton FL.
Funeral arrangements by Shannon Funeral Homes. Share memories and condolences at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com.
