Terry Howard
21 Aug 2023
Past President Keith "Frenchie" French passes away aged 70
We are saddened to advise that Past President Keith French passed away at Laurel Hospice on Wednesday August 9 2023.
Keith had a brave battle with Motor Neurone Disease after being diagnosed with the killer disease in early 2022.
Frenchie will be remembered for his sharp humour, his bowls ability and his work for our Association over many years.
Frenchie joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1969 and saw service in Vietnamese waters on HMAS Sydney in 1969 and again in 1970.
Frenchie joined the RSL Bowls Association in 2001 and played in most National Carnival events since then. Unfortunately, he did not have the pleasure of playing in a winning Jack Hamiltion VC Trophy campaign with SA not tasting victory since the 1990s.
Frenchie had more success in the National Fours championship making at least quarter finals in most carnivals except Melbourne and Tasmania, and was a runner up on at least two occaisions.
Frenchie had many roles on the Management Committee of the Association for a number of years. His efforts in gaining sponsorships when SA hosted the carnival were particularly useful. Perhaps more importantly, Frenchie served as President for the period 2013/14 and 2014/15. During that time he was the driving force behind the change to our current uniform.
A memorial service for Frenchie will be held at Brighton RSL on Thursday 24 August commencing at 1400 hours.
We pass on our condolences to Frenchie's extended family members.