Donald French
We fondly reflect on the joyous moments, lasting impact, and legacy left by Donald E. French of Zanesville, who passed away the morning of January 19, 2024, at the age of 85. He was born on February 8, 1938, in Columbus, Ohio to the late Perry and Ruth Detty French. Admired for his work ethic, he spent his career with Central Ohio Coal from 1975 to 2000 and 12 years with National Life Insurance Company in Columbus, OH.
“Donnie” was an extraordinary and devoted dad, gramps, and great-grandpa, leaving behind a legacy of faith, strength, and unity. He is survived by his wife, Claudette French, whom he married on July 28, 1956; four children: Donald (Michelle) French, Kevin (Bernadette) French, Ronda (Mark) Daniels, and Kelley (William) McKee; ten grandchildren: Andrew French, Trissa (Brock) Baer, Donald (Tiffany) French, Jesse (Sydney) French, Shauna Tanner; Jarret (Lindsay) Daniels, Dallas (Chelsey) Daniels, Dustin (Josie) Daniels, Dylan (Erin) Daniels, and Kristin McKee (Cody Sampsel); and twenty two great-grandchildren: Kynlee, Rylen, Carly, Jordyn, Max, Isaiah, Gracie, Preslie, Alexis, Addison, Paislee, Hunter, Maddox, Jayce, Dayne, Avery, Dayton, Isabella, Charlotte, Dean, Monroe and Ivy. Lifetime friends Lacy Moore and Greg Stiltner.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters Ruth Ann Miller and Sandra Blackburn.
As a dedicated coal miner, he instilled the value of resilience in his family. Don found joy in watching the Ohio State Buckeyes play, creating cherished memories with his children and grandchildren during family gatherings. He took great pride in his hobbies as a hunter, fisherman and trapper. His unwavering strength and the love he shared with his family will forever be remembered. He takes pride in the accomplishments of his beloved children and grandchildren, knowing that he continues to live on in their hearts.
Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 on Tuesday January 23, 2024 at THE SNOUFFER FUNERAL HOME, 1150 WEST MILITARY ROAD, ZANESVILLE, OH. Funeral services will be held at 11a.m. Wednesday January 24, 2024 in the Snouffer Chapel with Rev. Dean Cole officiating. He will be laid to rest in Stovertown Lutheran Church Cemetery, Stovertown.
To send a note of condolence to the family go to www.snoufferfuneralhome.com, find us on Facebook or call our Locally Owned caring staff at 740.450.8000.
