Richard (Dick) Ffrench, a devoted husband, cherished father, and beloved grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 98. Born in Johnstown Duncormick, County Wexford, Ireland, he was raised on the family farm alongside his siblings Martin, Sadie, and Fintan. His early years were shaped by the values of hard work, faith, and family—principles that guided him throughout his life.

As a young man, Dick left Ireland to seek new opportunities, first in Liverpool and later in Canada, where he worked in the uranium mines in Elliot Lake. It was there he met Rosaleen, the love of his life. They married in Sligo, Ireland, in August 1960, beginning 65 years of love, companionship, and adventure.

Dick and Rosaleen began their married life in Canada before settling in California, where Dick trained as a welder and built a life centered around faith and family. He was proud to have helped build the skyscrapers in San Francisco as a member of UA Local 38. In San Lorenzo, they established their family home and raised their four children—Richard, Pearse, Anne, and Niall—with love, guidance, and dedication.

Following retirement, Dick and Rosaleen moved to San Diego to be closer to their children and grandchildren. He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren and took great joy in attending their activities and celebrating milestones.

Those who met Dick rarely forgot him. His engaging smile, hearty handshake, and genuine kindness drew people in. He had a gift for seeing the good in others and reflecting it back through his warmth, laughter, and generosity. His favorite saying, "The Best is Yet to Come," perfectly captured his optimism and faith in life's blessings.

A devout Catholic, Dick served as a Eucharistic Minister and was actively involved in his church community. He found joy in simple pleasures: tending his garden, tackling home projects, playing cards with family and friends, and traveling—especially to Ireland, which remained close to his heart. He also enjoyed golf, often playing with his sons and volunteering as a marshal at San Diego PGA events.

Dick will be remembered as a man of integrity, compassion, and devotion to those he loved. He made the world brighter, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched.

Dick was preceded in death by his sister Sadie Murphy and brother Martin Ffrench. He is survived by his beloved wife Rosaleen; his brother Fintan; his children Richard, Pearse, Anne, and Niall; daughters-in-law Suzy, Suzi, and Annette; son-in-law Robert; and grandchildren: Chloe and husband Anthony, Connor, Fiona, Thomas, Patrick, David, Fintan, Ellarose, James, and Philip; and extended family who will all miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Richard's honor to San Diego Youth Services.

https://sdyouthservices.org/donate/