Kenneth R. French, 80

October 15, 1942 - Sep 19, 2023

Kenneth R. French (Ken) was born on Thursday October 14th, 1942, in Portland, Oregon, and passed away September 19, 2023, in Vancouver, WA. Kenneth is survived by his wife of 33 years, Joan Carolynn French (Carol); his daughters Rebecca Chaney, Deborah Jenkins, Linda French, Christine French, Sheri Kaufman, and sons David French and Christopher Blaine. Ken had 16 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren.

Ken retired from Trucking in the early 2000's and spent his years enjoying time with his wife and hanging out with friends golfing, fishing and playing guitar. His passion for music started out in his younger years, he loved to listen to vinyl's and attend concerts. Ken turned to music when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, he used music as therapy. He would spend hours plucking away at his guitar learning the notes to new songs.

He shared his passion for music with anyone that would listen; you could always count on Ken to greet you with a smile and a friendly hello and turn the conversation to whichever new song he was learning to play at the time. He soon took his love of playing the guitar to open mic nights around Vancouver, WA. He often spoke with vibrant enthusiasm about his sessions with his friends and the people that would meet at these open mic nights.

Ken was known for being young at heart, he was kind and had a sweet soul, he would greet everyone with a smile and optimism. He loved his wife Carol fiercely and spoke vividly about the day they met and the moments and memories they shared together.

A memorial service will be held on October 7th, 2023, at 11am Immanuel Lutheran Church in Vancouver, Washington 8310 MacArthur Blvd.