HORNELL-Kenneth R. French, 85, of East Main Street, passed away Monday evening (Dec. 19, 2016) at Elderwood at Hornell, after a long illness.
Born in Hornell on June 19, 1931, he was a son of the late Charles and Minnie (Smith) French. He was married to the former Betty (Monaghan) Hall, who predeceased him on July 10, 2013. Besides his parents and wife, he was predeceased by his daughter, Debra French on Nov. 23, 2014; his two brothers, Carl Bovee and William French and his sister, Mabel Rider.
A lifelong resident of Hornell, Ken was a graduate of Hornell High School and before he retired he was employed for 37 years as firefighter for the City of Hornell.
Ken, also known as “Frenchy,” was also employed throughout the years as a bartender at several local fraternal organizations. He was a former member of the Hornell Moose Lodge No. 210, the Hornell Eagles Lodge, the Cpl. J.J. Mooney VFW Post No. 2250 in Hornell as well as the Hornell Association.
He enjoyed being outdoors spending time walking his dog, mowing his lawn and maintaining his cars in pristine condition. Ken will be remembered for his willingness to help others who were in need of assistance.
His loving family includes his three children, Larry French (Joanne Carpenter), Beth Campbell (Paul Cushman), and Amy French all of Hornell; his four grandchildren, Michael Butler, Jr., Sandra Campbell, Ricky French and Sean French and his great-grandson, Jasper French all of Hornell.
The Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., 285 Main St. in Hornell is honored to serve the family of Kenneth R. French.
To honor his wishes there will be no calling hours or funeral service. Interment will be in Rural Cemetery, Hornell.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to the Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, N.Y. 14843.
Online condolences or remembrances of Ken are welcomed at the Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home.
