Danne Ray French

Danne Ray French, 77, of Mattawan, MI, passed away surrounded by family April 2, 2025.

Danne was born on December 8, 1948, in Greenville, South Carolina, to Junior and Thelma French. He graduated from Mattawan High School in 1968 and was soon drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served with honor in the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War from July 1968 to November 1969. Danne was awarded the Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star for his service. He jokingly referred to his time in Vietnam as his "senior trip."

On his return from Vietnam, Danne met the love of his life, Theresa, and they were married in October 1971. Together, they built a life in Mattawan, raising two children while sharing a love of travel, farming, and family. Danne was a devoted husband of 55 years, an engaged father, and an active grandfather. He was known for his sharp wit and a great sense of humor, always ready with a playful remark—especially when it came to teasing his daughter about politics.

Danne had a passion for restoring vintage cars and spent many hours on home improvement projects, bringing new life to old things. He enjoyed spending time with his wife, Theresa, whether they were traveling the US on the Harley or simply enjoying time at home. In 2008 Danne retired from Eaton Corporation after more than 30 years.

Danne is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa French; their children, Kelly French of Washington, DC, and Brian French (Amy) of Lawton, MI; three granddaughters, Molly, Emma, and Ellie French; and a great-grandson, Robbie Bammert. He is also survived by his father, Junior French of Mattawan, brothers Michael French of Lawton, Gary French of Florida, and Scott French of Mattawan.

Danne was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma French, and his parents-in-law, Preston and Betty Gene Beck.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by a brief service at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Lawton. A luncheon will follow at New Community Church, 502 N. Main Street, Lawton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that we all be kind to one another. If you’d like to make a donation in Danne’s name, please consider the following:

Centrica Care Hospice

7100 Stadium Drive

Kalamazoo, MI 49009

OR

New Community Church

502 N. Main St.

Lawton, MI 49065