Kenneth Wayne French

Born on December 1, 1935, in Overton, Texas, Kenneth’s life was marked by dedication to his family and a spirit that touched many. On March 6, 1954, he married the love of his life, Edith Annet DeMmon, in Reno, Nevada. Their union spanned an incredible 71 years, a testament to their enduring love and commitment.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard French and Violet Fletcher, and his siblings Alice, Wanda, Beverly, Ronnie, Stanley, Donald, and Glenda.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Edith French, and his sister, Barbara Gates. Kenneth’s legacy lives on through his children: Thea French, Kenneth French Jr., and David (Kimberly) French; grandchildren: Sunserea (Bill) Gates, Adam (Miranda) Durrance, James Durrance, Natasha French, Moriah (Chris) McVeigh, and Joshua French; and great-grandchildren, Brianna Bailey, Morgan Durrance, Cayden Durrance, and Carson Durrance. Kenneth also leaves behind many other loved ones who were touched by his presence.

Kenneth was a proud and dedicated veteran of the United States Marine Corps, who faithfully served his country for 23 years (1952-1975). Kenneth’s distinguished military career spanned the globe, with deployments to Korea, Vietnam, Japan, and the Philippines. He also showcased his exceptional marksmanship by participating in service pistol matches in Japan. During his courageous tours in Vietnam, Kenneth was wounded twice and was honorably awarded the Purple Heart.

A significant portion of Kenneth’s service was dedicated to shaping future Marines as a highly respected Drill Instructor at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot and Camp Pendleton in San Diego. His exemplary skills and commitment were recognized at the highest levels, as he was selected to demonstrate hand-to-hand combat training to President John F. Kennedy, and chosen for special security surveillance for President Richard M. Nixon's “West Coast White House” in San Clemente, California. Kenneth embodied the values of honor, courage, and commitment throughout his life and service. His legacy of dedication to his country and his profound impact on those he trained and served alongside will be deeply cherished and remembered.

Kenneth was a man of many passions. An amateur geologist, he found joy in collecting rocks and meticulously crafting them into jewelry. He was an avid reader and loved sharing a good laugh as a joke enthusiast. In 1986, alongside his wife, Edith, and son David, he founded Eagle Fence Company in Santee, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his community.

Kenneth Wayne French will be remembered for his steadfast love for his family and the warmth he brought to all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

A graveside service will be held to honor and remember Kenneth Wayne French at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122, on Thursday, July 3rd, at 11:15 am.