Orville Lee French Obituary (1947

Orville Lee French, 77, of Argenta, IL, passed away on October 11, 2024. He was born on May 5, 1947, to Arnold and Edith (Stultz) French. Orville graduated from Argenta High School and answered the call to serve his country in the US Army from 1967 to 1969. During his service in Vietnam, he earned two overseas bars and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 device, and the Presidential Unit Citation. After his military service, Orville built a career as a short and long-haul truck driver, traversing the nation's highways. When not on the road, he could often be found at the Wild Dog Saloon, where he was a mainstay on his favorite stool, offering sage advice and brewing coffee for his buddies. Orville is survived by his children: Nicholas Lee French (Kimberly), Patrick French, Mark French, and Jill Gorde; his brother Ronald French; grandchildren Taylor, Norah, and Hunter; as well as four nieces and nephews: Jody French Myers, Tracy Bliss Barrett, Troy French, and Joe French. He was preceded in death by his father, Arnold French, and his beloved mother, Edith Stultz French. Orville's wit, character, and raw humanity drew the hearts of many friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and came to love him. Memorial Services will be held 4:00 pm- 6:00 pm Saturday, November 9th at Calvert & Wikoff Funeral Home located on North Water Street in Decatur, IL. A private funeral ceremony is to be held with family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The Salvation Army of Decatur SSVF Program In Memory of Orville French 229 W Main St Decatur, IL 62523