Todd Aaron French

March 31, 1964 — Aug. 19, 2011

Todd Aaron French, 47, left this earth Friday to continue his journey.

He was born in Pomona, Calif., to David and Connie French. He grew up in Southern California and was a resident of Eureka, Calif.

Todd served in the Navy as a Navy SEAL for 11 years. After his first career he decided to continue his education and became a surgical physician assistant with a specialty in cardiothoracic surgery. He practiced medicine for 12 years before becoming ill. He most recently practiced in Eureka, Calif., at St. Joseph Hospital.

Todd married the love of his life, Amy (Ditterick) French on June 25, 2005. He was a wonderful husband and a great father to Chelsea, Amanda, Ian and Scarlett. He took great pride in his family and enjoyed camping trips, vacations and spending quality time with them.

Todd enjoyed surfing from a young age and spent many hours in the surf both in the United States and abroad. He also had a passion for mountain biking and was up for riding any single track he could find.

Todd is survived by his wife, Amy of Eureka, Calif.; children Chelsea, Amanda, Ian and Scarlett, all of Eureka; parents David and Connie French of Temecula, Calif.; sister Kirsten Hischer of Antioch, Calif.; and brothers Kirk Christensen of Newport Beach, Calif., and Brock Ditterick of Albany.

Todd was preceded in death by grandparents Ruth and Doc Hall, and Betty and Dwight French.

A service will be at 1 p.m. today at the Samoa Womens Club in Eureka.

In lieu of flower please make memorial contributions to the ALS Association or the Surfrider Foundation.

Pierce Mortuary in Eureka, Calif., is handling arrangements. To leave condolences or notes for the families, please visit www.piercemortuarychapels.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Pierce Mortuary, Eureka, CA.