Donald Harold French

Our wonderful, loving Husband, Dad, Grandad, and Great-Grandad, passed away on Septemer 19, 2022 from Mesothelioma at home surrounded by his loving family in West Valley City, Utah. Don was 75 years old.

Don was born on December 12, 1946 in Mt. Holly, New Jesery to Harold “Frenchie” Albert French and Dorothy “Dolly” Marie Purcell French. He grew up in Medford, New Jersey, graduating in 1965 from Lenape Regional High School. After high school, he came to Salt Lake City, Utah to attend the University of Utah, graduating in 1969.

Don married Rosalie “Rose” Ann Jones on June 9, 1969 in St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ogden, Utah. Two children were born to this union. 

Don served in the U.S. Navy from 1970 to 1976, first going to school and then aboard the U.S.S.Biddle. Navy duties took him from San Francisco, CA. to Virginia Beach, VA., Norfork, VA. and then to Bath, Maine. Upon discharge from the Navy, Don and Rose moved back to the Salt Lake City area to raise their family.

Don worked at Sperry Rand (Unisys), then OEC-Diasonics, which became GE Healthcare (Medical Systems), retiring in 2015. Don was an avid runner and gardener. He loved to hike and travel, especially to the ocean. And he enjoyed the many family reunions we attended, especially the last one in June 2022, which included a Santana concert in West Valley City. He enjoyed the U of U basketball and football, as well as the Philadelphia teams: the Phillies, Eagles and the Flyers. 

Don is survived by his wife, Rose, of 53 years. Two children, Erik French and Tara (Michael Drews) French. He is also survived by three amazing grandchildren, Katelynn “Kati” (John Kaiser) French, Matthew Drews, and Sarah Drews. And one adorable great-grandson, Carter French Kaiser. Preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Dorothy French.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Clarke Low and Dr. Jamie Brant for their care over the last 15 months. And Intermountain Hospice, especially his nurse, Jaquel, for all her care.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Best Friends Animal Sancturay, 5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, Utah 84741 or a charity of your choice.

Graveside services for Don will be on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 11:00 am at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 4th Avenue and “T” Street, Salt Lake City, Utah.