David A. “Frenchie” French (70) of Newton

Funeral services celebrating Dave’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at the Crain Funeral Home, Newton with Pastor Nate Hagen officiating.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Monday, September 28 and from 9:30 am, Tuesday until time of service in the funeral home.  Burial will be in the Trexler Cemetery, Jasper County, Illinois.  While in attendance, please follow the recommendations of the CDC to observe social distancing and the wearing of masks is recommended. 

Dave was born on July 21, 1950 in Palestine, Illinois the son of Homer E. and Doris L. (Chapman) French.  On February 21, 1994, Dave married Delores “Dee” Dunlap.  She preceded him in death on June 1, 2012.   Dave was a retired heavy equipment operator, having spent twenty-five years helping to build the pipeline.Dave was a life member of the Mid-Central Operating Engineer Local 841.  Other memberships include  The Patriot Guard, Winterrowd Masonic Lodge #664, and the Jasper County Shrine Club.  He helped establish the southern branch of the Spiritual Disciples Motorcycle Ministry, holding membership in both the northern and southern branches.  

In his free time, Dave loved to mow and tinker around the farm, fish, and ride motorcycles.  He used his love of riding to organize poker runs and other fund raisers to help others in need.  He enjoyed welding and used this talent to make Christian themed art. He loved his yorkies, Miley and Harley.

Dave will be loved and remembered by his daughter Heather Shea of Robinson; granddaughters Dasha Wiseman and Joelee Wiseman both of Robinson and brother Steve French and wife Sandy of Newton. He will also be loved and missed by his nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.  

His parents, wife Dee, and daughter LeAnn French preceded him in death.

Memorial gifts in honor of Dave may be made to the Jasper County Shrine Club or to the Oblong Christian Children’s Home.