Terry French

Pagosa Springs resident Terry French died of cancer Thursday, March 31, 2011, at the age of 73. Mr. French was born May 5, 1937, in McKeesport, Pa., to Donald and Fay. At the age of ten, his family moved to Albuquerque, N.M. He attended the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where he met his future wife, Patricia. They were married November 26, 1958, and their children were both born in Albuquerque.

Mr. French was a banker and salesman in Albuquerque for nearly forty years. The French's moved to Pagosa Springs sixteen years ago, where he owned and operated the NAPA store. Mr. French later became an auto parts salesman, and he loved working with the people and businesses on his route between Pagosa Springs and Bayfield.

Mr. French was an avid fisherman and hunter, who also enjoyed backpacking and exploring the outdoors with his family, and guiding and teaching young men through his involvement in the Boys Scouts of America. He is survived by his wife, of 52 years, Patricia French of Pagosa Springs; son Sean French and family of Los Alamos, N.M.; daughter Kathleen Light of Ketchikan, Alaska; and one grandson.

A remembrance gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, District II - Southwest Colorado, 1800 E. 3rd Ave, Suite 101, Durango, CO 81301.