Evans Funeral Home
314 E Main St
Norwalk, OH 44857
Phone: 419-668-1469
Website: http://www.norwalkfuneral.com/obituaries.php
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Valerie French, age 68, of Wakeman, passed away peacefully Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Metro Health Medical Center in Cleveland.
She was born March 4, 1955 in Olean, New York to Maynard and Verna Bell. She married the love of her life, Larry French, in June of 1977.
Valerie received her bachelor's degree at Bowling Green State University, and Master's degree at Ashland University. For many years, she served as an educator and administrator, where she inspired many and abundantly loved her students. Valerie was a devout Catholic and spent her entire life serving God. By doing so, many have reaped the benefits of her faithful service.
Valerie lived each day to the fullest, with a joyful spirit. She took pride in gardening, her artwork, loved hiking, kayaking, and fishing. She shared her love for adventure and the outdoors with her nine grandchildren. She was an MVP, grand champion Grandmother who didn't miss a beat keeping up with her grandkids many activities and aspirations. They were truly her pride and joy, and we know she now has the best seat in the house.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Larry French; her children Hilary (Chris) Barbuto, Barrett (Chandra) French, and Justin (Libby) French; grandchildren, Talia and Dominic Barbuto, Hannah, Claire and Audrey French, and Grace, Travis, Addie and Wade French; brothers Lee (Alicen) Bell and Mark (Jane) Bell; sister Barbara (Paul) Jensen; many nieces and nephews and numerous other family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Maynard and Verna Bell; and brother, Matthew Bell.
A visitation for family and friends will be held Tuesday, July 11, 2023, from 2:00 - 7:00 P.M. at the Evans Funeral Home, 314 E. Main Street, Norwalk. A funeral Mass will be held 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 91 E. Main Street, Norwalk with FR Anthony Recker officiating. A luncheon will follow in the gathering space. A graveside service will be held at 2:30 P.M. at St. Mary's Cemetery in Wakeman, OH.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Norwalk Area United Fund, 2 E. Seminary St, Norwalk OH 44857 or to the Sorrowful Mother Shrine, 4106 State Route 269, Bellevue, OH 44811.
