Isabelle Mary French

Isabelle Mary (Toepel) French was born April 26, 1911, in Ashland, Wisconsin, and passed away Saturday, January 17, 2009, in Alpena, Michigan. On July 3, 1937, Isabelle was married to Richard Sumner French, who was born February 10, 1907, in Ashland, WI, and passed away July 26, 1986, in Ironwood, MI. Isabelle (Izzy) resided in Ashland, WI until 1940; Ironwood, MI until 1988; and Harrisville, MI until her death. Isabelle was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar Toepel and Alice Maud (Morris) Toepel; one sister, Catherine Alice (Toepel) Chesterman; and two brothers, Allan Morris Toepel and John Alfred Toepel. She is survived by one brother, Richard Oscar Toepel (Dorothy); one son, David Scott French; two grandsons, David Scott French (Christa Williams) and Michael Scott French; one great granddaughter, Sasha Isabelle French; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Izzy possessed many genuine qualities and had truly eclectic interests. She loved conversing with family and friends, and everyone loved her candor and witticisms. Izzy was an avid reader; expressed a love and knowledge of Classical music beyond compare; and always provided the latest anecdotes of the day. Izzy also enjoyed practicing needlepoint and knitting, developing her own style of paper tole, and perfecting her recipes for fudge and beef stew that were always popular around the holidays. Her family, however, mattered most, and she had an impeccable memory for sharing their stories. Izzy always celebrated the joys and simple pleasures of life, never taking anything for granted. She survived the bleakness of the Great Depression, and understood the necessity and value of hard work. She attended Northland College, and held several jobs throughout her life. After the passing of her husband, Richard, she moved to Harrisville, MI and enjoyed volunteering her time at the Alcona County Library, which she did for several years, forming lasting friendships and sharing her love of literature, history, and “the news.” Izzy played an active role in the community and made friends quickly; she was always the life of the party, and was cheerful and witty in all weathers. The family would like to thank the following for their compassionate care: Dr. James Richards and the medical staff at the Harrisville branch of the Alcona Health Center; Pat Wheaton; Hospice; Jamieson Nursing Home; and Alpena Regional Medical Center. Visitation will be held at Gillies Funeral Home in Harrisville on January 24, 2009 from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. Donations are welcome at the Alcona County Library in Isabelle’s name. A memorial service is planned for a later time. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Isabelle Mary French, please visit our flower store.