Lewis M. French, Jr.

GREENFIELD CENTER — Lewis M. French, Jr. passed away at his home on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016. He was 87. Born on April 3, 1929 in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Mabel (Whipple) and Lewis M. French, Sr. Lewis served in the National Guard Company L, 27th Infantry Division from 1947 until 1959, obtaining the rank of Sgt. First Class. He was employed at General Electric for several years before entering the insurance field, obtaining his Life Insurance license in 1960 through Continental Assurance Company and operating his own business until his retirement in 2000. Lew enjoyed camping in the Adirondacks, fishing and hunting with family and friends, and being around his family as often as possible. He also had a love for flying and after acquiring his pilot’s license in earlier years, would fly often with friends. He belonged to many organizations throughout his lifetime including Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, BPOE Club, Royal Order of Jesters Court #122, Masonic Order Rising Sun Lodge #103, to name a few. Survivors include his beloved wife of 38 years, Jane (Groff) French; his first wife and mother of his children, Caroline Loeffler Patterson; three children, Steven French, Janice (Guay) Benjamin and Judy Martuscello and their spouses; one brother Robert J. French and his wife Kathleen of Minnesota; three step-children, Christopher Kuznia, John Kuznia and Jan (Kuznia) Parton and their spouses, as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Lew was predeceased one brother, John E. French and two sisters, Eudora (Dodie) Getter and Mae Fisher. Friends and relatives gathered to remember him on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016 at the William J. Burke and Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes of Saratoga Springs. A masonic service by Rising Sun Lodge #103 was held after the gathering followed by funeral services conducted by Pastor Rev. William Church. Burial was in the family plot at Greenridge Cemetery, also in Saratoga Springs. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made to the National Kidney Foundation, 99 Troy Rd., East Greenbush, NY 12061. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.