Michael F. French

Michael F French, born November 6, 1941, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and longtime director of the Rossford Public Library, passed away surrounded by the legacy of a life well lived. Likable, friendly, and accepting, Mike had an easy generosity of spirit and a quick wit that made people feel instantly at ease. When asked how he was doing, his famously honest and clever reply, "adequate", never failed to earn a laugh. It summed him up well: not showy, not exuberant, but thoughtful, genuine, and quietly funny.

Born and raised in the Southern Tier of New York State in Bath, New York, Mike was the eldest of six children in the French family. He graduated from Haverling High School in 1959 and carried with him a lifelong appreciation for learning, curiosity, and the written word. That love of, and belief in, education guided his career and values, and he took great pride in serving his community as the director of the Rossford Public Library.

Michael is survived by his two daughters, Lisa (Steve) Fortner and Amy (Chris) Giordano, and by his five grandchildren: Matthew Fortner, Daniel Fortner, Sarah (Stephen) Morse, Samantha Giordano, and Michael "Mick" Giordano. He is also survived by his siblings, Barbara (late James) Prise, David (Cindy) French, Thomas French, Karen (Dale Cartwright) Bugman, and Peter French.

Known for his wanderings through Toledo's neighborhood bars, Mike leaves behind many friends, and bartenders, who will remember his stories, humor, kindness, and his standing drink order: a Bud Light in a glass. He delighted in finding a good deal on quality goods, sharing newspaper articles that made him think of someone he cared about, and spreading the word about beloved Western New York destinations, including Keuka Lake, Cartwright's Maple Tree Inn, Letchworth State Park, and his Buffalo food trail favorites such as Parkside Candy (sponge candy), the Anchor Bar (home of the original Buffalo wing), and Ted's Hot Dogs. At his core, Mike valued education, curiosity, and humor, and he shared those gifts freely with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Visitation for Michael will be held at Sujkowski- Walker Funeral Home in Rossford, Ohio, on Monday, February 2, 2026 from 12 PM - 4 PM. Immediately following, we will raise a glass in Mike's honor at Daffy's at 5134 Lewis Avenue, please join us if you are able. In the coming months, a celebration of life will be held in Western New York for local family and friends, details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael's honor to the Rossford Public Library to support the good work done by Mr. French over so many years.