Mr. David W. French, 58, of Franklin died Monday, June 24, 2013, at Portsmouth Regional Hospital.

He was born September 20, 1954, in Franklin, the son of James L. French Sr. and Verna Mae (Paradie) French.

Dave lived in Franklin most of his life and was a graduate of Manchester Memorial High School, Class of 1972. He served in the New Hampshire National Guard for six years.

A woodsman like his dad, Dave worked at Bill Crowley Logging in Loudon for several years and later for Henniker Hardwood. Recently, Dave was self-employed.

Dave loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter, gardener, and also loved camping.

Dave served as a mentor to many at Webster House in Franklin.

Dave was a great son, nephew, cousin, grandfather, friend, and exceptional brother. We were all lucky to have had him in our lives and he will be dearly missed.

Family members include 13 brothers and sisters, Jeanne Dukette of Franklin, James French Jr. of Laconia, Sylvia Chmielewicz of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, George French Sr. of Andover, Patricia Derby of Webster, Michael French Sr., Susan Overlock, and Sherry Ames, all of Franklin, Raymond French of Gilford, Kathy Kenneson of Belmont, Deborah Tessier of Northfield, Peggy Arend of Newfields and Cheryl Davis of Manchester; a grandson, Craig James (CJ) Barnard of Concord; a stepdaughter, Kimmie Barnard of Franklin; and many nieces, nephews, aunt, uncles, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Visiting hours were held on June 27 at Thibault-Neun Funeral Home in Franklin. Funeral services were held on June 28 at the Congregational Christian Church. Burial followed at the Franklin Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Dave may be made to the James L. French Sr. Scholarship Fund, c/o Debbie Tessier, Franklin Savings Bank, 387 Central St., Franklin 03235; or to The Webster Place, 27 Holy Cross Road, Franklin 03235.

For directions and an online guest book, visit NeunFuneralHomes.com.