Mark Anthony French

Arrangements are Pending at this time.

Mark Anthony French passed away on October 26, 2026, at the age of 86.

Mark was born on November 7, 1939, in Lena, Wisconsin, to Arliss and Frances (Sloan) French. He spent much of his youth in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, where his lifelong sense of adventure began alongside his brothers and sisters. Those early years laid the foundation for a life filled with faith, love, adventure, and cherished memories with the people who meant the most to him.

In 1953, Mark’s deep spirituality was nurtured at St. Francis Seminary in Milwaukee. Two years later, Mark rejoined his family in Appleton to complete high school. His dad “encouraged” him to get a job at the grocery store he managed—the Red Owl. It turned out to be good advice, because that’s where he met a quiet cashier, Noreen Wankey. After graduating from Appleton High School in 1957, he enlisted in the Navy, where he formed friendships that would last a lifetime. Upon returning home, he married Noreen, his former classmate and the quiet cashier who had captured his heart, on June 16, 1962.

After earning his bachelor’s degree in education, Mark began his teaching career in New London and Kimberly. He later earned his master’s degree and became principal at West Side Elementary School in Kimberly, followed by Gegan Elementary School in Menasha, where he served until his retirement. Throughout his career, Mark touched the lives of countless students, families, and colleagues, leaving a lasting legacy of kindness, encouragement, and dedication to education.

Mark led a rich, meaningful, and full life. His strong faith was demonstrated through his service as a choir member and lector at St. Patrick and St. Bernard’s Catholic churches. Through his example, Mark passed his faith on to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, making it an important part of the family he and Noreen built together.

His commitment to his community continued in retirement through leadership in the Menasha Morning Kiwanis and volunteering at Heckrodt Nature Preserve, Grignon Mansion, and the Houdini Museum.

Mark and Noreen lived in the same house in Menasha for 45 years, where holidays brought memories their family would always treasure. Every Easter morning, the “Hallelujah Chorus” played until the last grandkid got out of bed. Ringing bells for the Salvation Army with the grandkids, following the NORAD Santa Tracker on Grandpa’s computer, and passing down the making of tourtière meat pie were treasured times spent together. Their garden attracted squirrels, deer, and birds of almost infinite varieties.

Mark loved to stay active, skiing and taking long walks well into his 80s. He also enjoyed rollerblading, ran a half marathon, and celebrated his 60th birthday by skydiving.

Mark’s greatest passion was reserved for his grandkids. Together, they created memories camping at Hartman Creek State Park and Peninsula State Park in Door County and skiing at Whitecap. He passed down the tradition of adding a rainbow of colors to the campfire. He was often the loudest fan at his grandkids’ sporting events, and in his eyes, they were always the best players on the field.

Mark is survived by his wife, Noreen; his children, Jennifer Zoeller, Brian and Tammy (Traeder) French, and Adam and Jennifer (Larson) French; his grandchildren, Michelle (Tyler) Vogds, Jacquelyn (Adam Kunz) Zoeller, Daniella Zoeller, Eric Zoeller, Nicholas (Grace) French, Joy French, Will French, Jackson French, and Griffin French; his great-grandchildren, Layla Vogds, Harlow Vogds, and Colette Vogds; his brothers, Gary French, Ron (Allyn) French, and Curt French; his sister-in-law, Barbara Wadel; and many nieces and nephews.

Mark was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Elizabeth; his parents, Frances and Arliss French; his parents-in-law, Florence and Norman Wankey; his brother, Jack French; his sisters, Joy French and Katie Melby; his in-laws, Pat French, Cathy French, Richard Wankey, Mary Castonia, Larry Wadel, and Don Castonia; and his son-in-law, Thomas Zoeller.

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me. You set a table before me in front of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Indeed, goodness and mercy will pursue me all the days of my life; I will dwell in the house of the LORD for endless days. —Psalm 23:4–6