Gayle A. French, 68, of Traverse City, passed away on Wednesday, Sep. 24, 2008. She was born May 4, 1940, in Fenton.
She married Philip E. French on Dec. 20, 1958, in Fenton. Together they had four wonderful children whom she adored.
Gayle had tremendous compassion for the elderly. Her energy and initiative led to the founding of the French Manor in 1988. Gayle and Phil later sold the facility, but her commitment to “care with dignity” never wavered.
Gayle enjoyed sharing her time with others. As a volunteer with the Munson Medical Center Auxiliary, she hosted the “Bake Booth” in the annual bazaar. She was an active member of the Senior Center, where she taught basic computer skills.
Gayle was also an avid card player and entertaining story-teller.
Gayle was also blessed with a love of music. For many years she enjoyed singing with the local Sweet Adeline chapter. A gifted hostess and cook, she flourished in her role as owner of Twin Oaks Bed and Breakfast.
Surviving Gayle are her husband of nearly 50 years, Philip; children, Timothy (Kathy) French of Paris, Texas, Tammi (Mike)DiRenzo of Westminster, Colo., Todd (Kimberly) French of Portland, Ore., and Tracy (Julie) French of Westminster, Colo.; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Gayle was preceded in death by her mother, Angeline “Nellie” (Kozlowski) Sewell; her stepfather, Charlie Strobridge; and her siblings, Vivian Gregg, Leola Sylvester, Joyce Durand and Wayne Sewell.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 29, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City.