It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Kevin Charles French of Richmond Hill, Ontario on July 28, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. Kevin was born in Toronto, Ontario on December 22, 1947, to the late John and Dorothy (nee Billers) French. He is survived by his wife Sylvia, the love of his life; devoted sons, Jonathan (Caileigh Rabbior), Michael (Madison Schaffner); precious granddaughter, Hadley French; sisters, Mary (Ron), Maureen (Dave) and Melanie. Kevin was loved by sisters-in-law, Margaret Ellen, Donna (Jack), Carol Anne (Don), Almeda (Peter) and brothers-in-law, Angus (Marlene) and Donald Gerard. He leaves behind many loved nieces, nephews and cousins from coast-to-coast whom he was always interested in and proud of their accomplishments.

Kevin had a successful career as Senior Director of Sales and Marketing for the Canadian Division of Safeguard Business Systems. He was afforded the opportunity to work from his home office 36 years ago, well before it was common practice. Being highly organized, resourceful and disciplined, he was able to balance his work life with being a great father. Kevin’s greatest accomplishment and joy of his life was watching Jonathan and Michael develop into responsible and loving young men. He treasured his time with his family golfing, skiing, attending his sons’ hockey games, practices and their canoeing and kayaking regattas. Kevin loved vacationing with his extended family in Nova Scotia and on the shores of Lake Huron in Kincardine. He enjoyed entertaining at home and was a gracious host to many friends and family over the years.

From his teenage years, Kevin had a passion for music's great artists, notably Louis Armstrong, Al Jolson, Dean Martin and Nat King Cole. In retirement, he spent many evenings listening to his extensive collection of classical music, including Glen Miller and Tommy Dorsey. One of Kevin’s favourites was “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong, which exemplified his attitude in life. We will cherish his loving memories forever.

Kevin was an inspiration to many, fully embracing life when faced with cancer, remaining strong and hopeful to the very end. He was forever grateful for the nine bonus years he was granted due to medical research and the excellent care of Dr. Geoffrey Liu, and the dedicated staff at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. The family would also like to recognize and thank the medical and nursing staff at the University Health Network for their kindness and compassion.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, August 20, 2022, at 10:30am in the chapel at the Elgin Mills Funeral Centre. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:30 am. The family kindly requests that all visitors wear masks during the service. Face masks will be provided.

If so desired, in honour of Kevin, donations may be made to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation at https://supportthepmcf.ca/ui/DonateNow/donations/start (”Give In Memory” Tab/Device Drop Down Menu) to the Lusi Wong Lung Cancer Early Detection Fund supporting Dr. Geoffrey Liu’s research.