Ernie Tignal French

Ernie Tignal French of Austin, Texas passed away on Friday, August 19, 2022, at the age of 97. Ernie was born on May 5, 1925, at Jessie Frank and Annie Waterson French. The family of 8 included 2 brothers Bryson and Raymond T, and sisters Alma, Marie, and Alice. They moved to Bastrop, Texas where he enjoyed fishing and ranching. After graduating from Bastrop High School in 1943, he was drafted into the US Navy. He was sent to the Mariana Islands in the South Pacific during WWII where he hauled supplies during his two years and four months of service. He left the service, marrying Lorene Fay in 1948. They were blessed with one son, Ernie Dale French. Ernie became a rancher owning around 80 head of cattle and a few horses. He had some of his livestock stolen twice and decided to quit ranching. Ernie worked for the City of Austin for 29 years retiring in 1983.

For over 25 years, Ernie played the bass guitar with the Rockne Playboys – a local country music band. He played several different instruments but primarily the bass guitar. He married Madalyn “Bonnie” on September 23, 1977. They enjoyed 25 years of RVing all around the West. It is said they owned 23 different RV’s! They lived in Granite Shoals on Lake LBJ, in Kerrville, and Blanco before returning to Austin in 1999. Over the years, Ernie was a 60-year Mason belonging to the Austin and Bastrop Lodges. He was an active member of the VFW. His family includes 3 grandchildren and their spouses along with over 7 great-grandchildren.

Ernie is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, sisters, and daughter-in-law He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Bonnie. In addition, he is survived by his son, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life for Ernie will be held Saturday, October 1, 2022, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749. A graveside service will occur Saturday, October 1, 2022, from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM, at 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749. A reception will occur Saturday, October 1, 2022, from 11:45 AM to 12:45 PM, 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cookwaldenforestoaks.com for the French family.