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LAKELAND, Fla. - Robert Leal French Sr., 82, of Plant City, Fla., passed away Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, from pulmonary fibrosis.

He was born June 28, 1927, in Gustavus, and moved to Plant City in 1972 from Somerset, Pa.

Mr. French was a member of Somerset Reformed Church, a deacon and Sunday school teacher, and also president of Somerset Borough Council.

He was active in many social organizations, was a private pilot, radio engineer and announcer at WVSC, avid gardener, singer, musician, a huge fan of Bucs football and Rays baseball, and a loving husband and father.

Mr. French was preceded in death by his parents, Albon and Thelma French, and his daughters, Betty Jean French and Jean Ellen Schaerffer.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Margaret French; a son, Robert L. (Millie) French Jr.; daughters, Barbara E. French and Dolores ''Dodie'' Walker, all of Plant City, Fla.; a sister, Mary Ella French of Bradenton, Fla.; seven grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Dec. 2 at Lakeland Memorial Gardens, 2125 S. Bartow Road.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, 105 Arneson Ave., Auburndale, Fla. 33823.

Online guest book available at www.lakelandfuneralhome.com.

(special notice)