It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Earl French at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre on Sunday, November 29, 2020. Earl lived a full, remarkable life of 94 years.

Earl was born during tough times in Spalding, Saskatchewan and raised in Nipawan. He was the fourth child in a family of eight to parents Barney and Dorothy. From an early age, Earl developed a work ethic that stood by him throughout his life.

Earl left Saskatchewan as soon as he could and “never looked back.” He eventually found work in the oil patch, leading to a successful and dynamic career that spanned many decades and many countries. A major achievement was his compact design of portable drilling facilities that were quickly loaded, easily moved, and set up, saving both time and expense. After much hard work and accomplishment, Earl retired from Shell International and returned to Canada to settle down in central Alberta in the 80s.

Restless, Earl started working for a local oil company and officially retired, again, in 2012 at 86 years of age. He then continued, as per usual, “horse-trading” anything, as there was always another deal to be done.

There was forever a project on the go with Earl. In his limited spare time, he enjoyed reading Western Canadian and world history, golfing, curling, and visiting with his coffee friends to solve the world’s problems. Volunteering at the Salvation Army kettles was a staple every year. Charity was important to him wherever he lived, including when overseas and working in remote villages. He had a selfless nature: “Help now, not later.”

Above all else, Earl enjoyed spending time with his family. He is deeply missed and greatly loved by his family; daughter, Sharon (Karl), Shauna (Lydell), Danielle and Nicole; Daughter, Bunny (Stuart), Cody, Teala (Jesse), Aleah and Aubrey; Daughter, Pamela (Don), Trisha (Steve), Madalynn and Mallory, Kyle (Jenna), Kal and Clara. David, Jennifer, Makayla, Billy, Pyper. Sheena (Greg), Shayla, Aaron, and Faith. He is survived by his sister Thelma, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Earl will also be lovingly remembered by his partner of 27 years, Maudie, and her family.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the homecare staff from AHS Lacombe for their care and compassion in his final years and to the staff at the Red Deer Regional Hospital in his final weeks.

In respect of Earl’s wishes and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to the Salvation Army at www.salvationarmyreddeer.com. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com.

A Private Memorial to Celebrate Earl’s Life will take place when it is safe to do so.

Arrangements in care of:

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer),

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER.

• Date : 2020-12-08
• Location : www.ParklandFuneralHome.com - Red Deer