HUDSON FALLS – Douglas A. French, 77, passed away on Saturday, April 17, 2021, following a short illness. Doug was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who will be immeasurably missed by those who loved him.
Doug was born on July 25, 1943 to Everett and Mabel (White) French. He graduated from Hudson Falls High School in 1961 and subsequently attended Norwich University in Vermont.
On January 8, 1966, Doug married the love of his life, Donna Edgerly at St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church in Hudson Falls.
Doug enjoyed an accomplished career at Glens Falls Hospital. His engineering acumen and keen knowledge of mechanical systems were crucial to the “behind the scenes” operation of the hospital during his tenure. As Director of Facilities, Doug oversaw the design and construction of Pruyn Pavilion and was instrumental in executing the rigorous building requirements needed for the installation of the facility’s then state-of-the-art linear accelerator. Doug’s contributions at the hospital, led to his promotion as Vice President for Environmental Services, a position he held until his retirement.
Doug was a master carpenter and could expertly build a house as easily as he could make a stunning piece of custom furniture. With his two sons, he started DA2B (Dad and 2Boys) Builders in his retirement and quickly found that the quality of his craftmanship and his integrity created a high demand for his services.
One of Doug’s greatest pleasures in retirement was going to the “flying field” to pilot his model aircraft with fellow enthusiasts and when he could, sharing the experience with is grandchildren.
Besides his parents, Doug was predeceased by his loving wife, Donna, who passed away in 2003.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Matthew (Jennifer) French, his daughter, Mechelle (Chris) Barden and his son, Joshua (Melissa) French. Doug was also adored by his grandchildren, Erica (Trevor) Jensen, Nathan French, Nicholas Barden, Natalie Barden, Isabella French, Austin French, Shawn Lunt and Alexis Peterson. Doug appreciated the kindness and care over the years, from his sister in law, Deb Palmer and Colleen Russell and particularly treasured his 75-year friendship with Bill Larmon.
Sincere gratitude for the kindness, compassion and competence of the Tower 3 and Tower 2 nurses and caregivers at the Glens Falls Hospital -you are a remarkable group of people.
As per Doug’s wishes, there will be no calling hours and a graveside service will be private.
Memorial donations in memory of Doug may be made to the C.R. Wood Cancer Center, 100 Park St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.
My thoughts & prayers are with the family and friends of Doug. I personally know Matt & Josh & send my condolences. Hold close to your heart all the good memories! Sharon
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. May you rest in peace with your brothers Bill, Bob, Everett, Roger and your sister Barbara.
You and your family are in my heart and mind. My Condolences on the passing of your father. He will be missed.
My deepest sympathy’s to the entire family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. I remember getting together often as a young child. May you Rest In Peace Uncle Doug.
Thoughts and prayer to the family. Doug was a cousin to my husband and we met with him for lunch a few times with the White Family Cousins.
We are so sorry to learn of Doug’s passing. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. From the little time we were in his company, we can attest to Doug’s skills and ingenuity as we live in one of DA2B accomplishments. Matt, we always enjoyed the discussions between you and your father. May Doug rest in peace.
So sorry for your loss. Many great memories of our families and the fun we had together.