Eldon Leon French

Saginaw, Michigan

Formerly of Mesa, Arizona

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 8, 2026, with his loving wife, Gloria; daughter, Suzanne; and granddaughter, Tanya; at his side. At the age of 89 years.

The son of the late William Woods and Esther Louise (Enns) French, Eldon was born on July 22, 1936, in Plymouth, Michigan. He graduated from Plymouth High School. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1954 until his honorable discharge in 1957. Eldon married the love of his life, Gloria Ann Chantaca on August 6, 1988. They shared nearly 39 wonderful years together. She survives him. Eldon retired from his career as a Heavy Equipment Operator and Foreman after many years of loyal and dedicated service on construction projects throughout Michigan and Arizona. During his time in Arizona, he attended Phoenix First Assembly, worshiping under the leadership of his longtime friend, Pastor Tommy Barnett. Upon returning to Michigan, he continued his walk of faith at Living Faith Family Ministries. Eldon loved watching sports, especially baseball. While living in Arizona, he enjoyed following the Arizona Diamondbacks, the state’s home team and a major part of Arizona’s vibrant baseball scene. Eldon loved reading, especially the newspaper, and he enjoyed the different fellowships at church and going out to eat with Gloria. He cherished his trips to Michigan, especially heading up north to Mackinac Island and the Upper Peninsula; and he always made sure to get ice cream along the way.

Surviving besides his devoted wife, Gloria French; are his step-son, Mario Chantaca; the mother of his children, Bonie Lucielle (Woodard) French; sons and daughters, Raymond Dale (Linda Sue) French, Lucinda Ann (Jason) French Phillips, Susanne Marie French Schooley, Timothy James (Tara Sue) French. Left to cherish his memory are 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. He also shared a special bond with his mother‑in‑law, Mary Adella Chantaca, whom he loved spending time with, especially their simple moments together over a cup of coffee, talking and enjoying each other’s company. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Besides his parents, Eldon is preceded in death by his daughter, Tamara Lynn French Criswell; brothers, James Woods French and Roger Dale French.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Medilodge of Frankenmuth and Americans Home Health & Hospice Care for their kind and compassionate care of Eldon.

Funeral will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Living Faith Family Ministries, 1902 Stone Street, Saginaw, MI 48602. Pastor Frank Gallardo will officiate. Military Honors will be rendered under the auspices of the United States Navy and American Legion Post 22. Private Burial will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, Michigan. Friends may visit the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday at the church. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the wishes of the family, c/o Gloria French.

Please share your condolences and memories with the family at the visitation, service, or online at www.casefuneralhome.com.