Wayne A. French

Thunderation! It’s been a good ride, but Wayne French is now riding to his final home; passing away on November 24, 2019 at the age of 84.

Born on August 5, 1935, at Lawrence, Kansas, Wayne was the third of four children born to Joel and Roena (Wagaman) French. Wayne grew up knowing hard times as his family moved from farm to farm looking for work. After graduating from Hoyt High School in 1954, he went to work for Good Year Tire Company in Topeka and later went to work for Firestone Tire Company changing earth mover tires. During this time, he had a blind date with Bernice Wiley. Many dates were spent changing tires. But Bernice had another boyfriend she would go home to see on weekends. In dad’s own words, “She may have had another boyfriend, but I didn’t give up because I knew she was something special.” His perseverance prevailed and on December 2, 1956, they began their life together being married at the Mont Ida Church of the Brethren. They first made their home in Topeka where they had two children Tammie and Gary. In 1961 the couple made the decision to move to Garnett where they started Fair Acres Farm; partnering with his brother-in-law, Don Wiley. It was a short time later that Cheryl, another daughter was born.

Together they enjoyed farm living; raising corn, wheat, milo, cattle, pigs, and horses. The horses were close companions for Wayne. Scout given to him by his big brother was the first horse on the new farm; next Smokey, a horse he broke to ride himself; then Chief, Prince, Ginger, and so many more with memories to share. Together, they rounded up cattle, rode in parades, gave rides to children at VBS and fairs, but most importantly gave rides to kids and grandkids. Once the grandchildren started coming, Wayne build barrel horses built for each one. The barrel horses became an icon at many of the same events the real horses were found.

While his horses were his companions, it was the many dogs that were his daily sidekicks. For many years he raised Brittanies. Potato Chip and Hot Dog were a couple of his favorites. His heart would later be captured by his border collies; Ace, Missy, and Maggie. He couldn’t be happier; a man on a horse, with his dog, herding cattle. His honest hard work had given him a farm he loved and was proud of.

In addition to farming Wayne started driving a school bus in 1971. In 1979, Wayne and Bernice began a new adventure becoming the school bus managers. They enjoyed the challenge, and the many new friends that they made with the buses.

Wayne believed in serving the community, he was a member of the Westphalia Lions and he served on the board of Big Brothers and Big Sisters. As a member of the Mont Ida Church of the Brethren, he had a strong faith in his Heavenly Father and served Him in a variety of ways such as church treasurer, sunrise breakfast cook, participating in the Christmas Program, and Sunday School Superintendent. His faith was also demonstrated with his work as a Gideon.

Wayne loved the time he was able to travel and see the countryside. Some of his trips included his first vacation in a camper pickup to Wyoming, a bus trip to Maine, and a fishing trip to Canada.

Unfortunately, Wayne’s life was altered with a bizarre accident in March of 2010 that left him paralyzed and suddenly ended his farming career. It was a difficult time as he longed to be back on the combine. With the help of a grandson, Jake, he continued to be apart of the farming decisions. But also with the help of that special girl he married so many years ago, they were able to stay on the farm. Now a new border collie joined the family, Millie. She was one special dog that helped him through these tough times. Later more special gals would stop by to give them a hand. About a year and a half ago, they made the decision to move to the Parkview Nursing Home where they were greeted with many more new friends ready to help.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Joel and Roena French; brother, Raymond; and two sisters, Ruth Leslie and Martha Lee Shay.

To fondly remember him, he leaves his wife, Bernice and their three children, Tammie and Terry Henry, Gary and Janet French, and Cheryl and John Strobel. He will be forever remembered by his four grandsons, Jacob and Amy Strobel, Joe and Anne Strobel, Dalton Henry, Taylor and Lauren French; five granddaughters, Kyra and Josh Elliott, Courtney Henry and Jason Coonrod, Jessica and Sam Carey, Lauren and Allie Henry. He was the greatest of great grandpas to Brooklyn, Guy, and Hank Strobel, Peyton Henry, Lenny and Mila Elliott, Silas and Rosie French, Levi Carey and Tessa Strobel. Wayne will also be remembered by his brother in law, Homer Leslie and many caring nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 PM on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, at the Mont Ida Church of the Brethren. Burial will follow in the Garnett Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Mont Ida Church of the Brethren or Parkview Heights or Goods Shepherd Hospice and left in care of Feuerborn Family Funeral Service. Condolences may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com .