Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1934
DIED
2014
Stephen French Obituary
Sept. 6, 1934 - Feb. 4, 2014
Resident of San José
Noted visual artist, scholar, supporter of the Arts, his abstract works (shown USA, England; collected SF, SJ Museums; U of WI, OK, Pacific; major corps, individuals) reflected the poetry, music, humor of his life.
Emeritus Prof. Art SJSU; Assoc & Acting Dean, School Humanities/Arts; chair SJ Fine Arts Comm; Board Trustees, SJMA.
Born Seattle, lived/taught Seattle, Madison, CA. Survived by wife, Wanda Waldera; children, Sandy (Jon), Ken (Clairdee), Kathy (Judy), Elly (Vince), friends, colleagues, students.
Donations: SJMA, Opera SJ, SJ ICA, SJ arts orgs.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen French
Andy Goldberg
May 31, 2014
Warmest memories of Steve and thoughts of Wanda.
Steve's recent painting on exhibit at Artik demonstrates his mastery of painting.
April 23, 2014
I remember Steve as funny, and kind, and as a great mentor. I will continue to remember him thus. He will be missed. -- Mira Zussman Amiras, Middle East Studies, Humanities Dept (emerita).
February 23, 2014
Dear Wanda,
Steve was always a joy to see at all of the San Jose Art Musumn events. He certainly will be sadly missed.
Mary Ann Barr
February 19, 2014
Dear Wanda, A fitting remembrance of a man we all loved. Thank you so much. I will send along as I've found many who did not know of his passing. Besides all his accomplishments and contributions to our world, he was a dear friend one could always count on.
Kathryn Funk
ken matsumoto
February 15, 2014
Dear Wanda, I am among the many in the art community who benefitted from Steve's positive influence. A truly generous and civilized man. I am so sorry for your loss.
Pablo E. Furman
February 14, 2014
I met Stephen in 1991 when I joined the faculty at San José State, in the (then) Department of Music. He was truly a fierce defender of faculty, especially "junior" faculty and a champion of fairness. Always encouraging, he welcomed everyone with his usual broad smile and laughter. When he decided to retire he told me, "I want to go and work on my art. I envy you guys doing all these wonderful things, so it's time to go back and do the same."
What a wonderful advocate and spirited artist we had. I credit Stephen, in large part, for my coming to believe that San José State was a really remarkable place to work, teach and make art. I wish he were still around.... He will be missed, greatly.
Diane Macias
February 14, 2014
Wanda I am so sorry for your loss! My condolences to you and your family!
Fran Rushing
February 14, 2014
A wonderful and talented man. You will be missed.
February 14, 2014
A lovely man and a good friend. Nils
Annette Kaiser
February 14, 2014
Peaceful rest to you, my friend. Soar with the angels. All my love.
Shirley Gaines
February 11, 2014
Steve French, a gentleman, scholar, artist, art teacher. He always exuded a gentle humor and warmth.
Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results
Make a Donation
in Stephen French's name
Memorial Events
for Stephen French
How to support Stephen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Stephen French's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
