88, passed away December 5, 2018, at his La Floresta home in Brea, California. Clare died peacefully with his loving family by his side.
Mr. French was born on September 16, 1930 in Murray’s Harbour, Newfoundland, Canada to Joseph and Effie French. Clare moved to Toronto in approximately 1948 where he began an over forty-year career at Illinois Tool Works. Clare’s work at ITW began very humbly, unloading trucks. During his career, he traveled domestically and internationally, was the author of three patents, and became an Executive Vice President of Sales. It was at Illinois Tool Works that Clare met his future wife and love of his life, Glenna Joan French. Clare and Glenna were married on December 13, 1957. Clare and Glenna, along with their two children, Edward and Debra, relocated to Southern California in 1971.
A loving husband, father, grandfather and professional, Clare was a committed man who put his family first at all times. Clare travelled many months out of the year and, while doing so, he remained remarkably connected at home making phone calls every night, ensuring his wife and kids were thriving, even with his difficult schedule. Clare navigated travel and professional commitments while managing to be present at every school and sporting event for his children. Clare never met a stranger – everyone was his friend. He loved learning about people, enjoyed making new friends, cherished his older friendships, and was often the nexus for people meeting from around the world. When he wasn’t travelling for work, Clare was constantly by his wife’s side and was her biggest supporter as she took care of their home and children. Clare loved hockey and baseball, was an avid reader, and loved country music.
Clare was an amazing "Pahi" to his two granddaughters, Alexandria and Hannah and was immensely supportive and proud of his granddaughters.
Clare and Glenna enjoyed retirement in Arizona where they developed numerous friendships; actively RV'd, belonged to the Motorhome Club, Canada Club, Irish Club, and Bridge Club. Clare and Glenna enjoyed traveling and took many Crossings, cruises, lead and participated in caravans, and most cherished their time in Europe and Canada. Clare’s favorite caravan was the one he and Glenna led to Newfoundland where he was able to share his cherished homeland with his dear friends. In retirement, Clare enjoyed golfing and long distance bike riding with his closest friends.
Clare was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Effie French and his beloved wife of sixty years, Glenna French, who died on June 29, 2018. Clare is survived by his son Edward (Jackie) French; daughter, Debra French; granddaughters, Alexandria DeGiuseppe and Hannah DeGiuseppe; and sister, Lillian Boone.
Services and a celebration of life will be scheduled for a future date. In the summer of 2019, Clare and Glenna will be taken to St. John’s Bay in Newfoundland, Canada as their final resting place.
The family wishes to thank those who have extended their support in Clare's final journey during his courageous and graceful battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. In honor of a life well-lived, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to: Community Senior Services
141 Spring Street Claremont, California, 91711or through the website at www.communityseniorservices.org and press donate button. Please list Clare's name in the memo section.
Clare's love for his family and friends will be forever felt and we will carry him in our hearts always.