Robert Torbet French

Captain Robert Torbet French, 85, of Martinsville, died Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at his home. He was born on April 6, 1929 in Bluefield, West Virginia, the son of George Easley French and Elisabeth Torbet French. He received his Associate Degree from Bluefield College and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering. He was in the Naval Academy from 1948-1952 and served in the U. S. Navy from 1952-1979, retiring as a Captain. He was a member of the Elks Club and the AmVets.

Bob will be remembered by many for his uncompromising values and dry humor. He always expected the best from everyone. When Bob called you his friend-it was an honor and a lifetime bond. He loved fiercely and deeply and always took care of his own. He enjoyed life, family and those friends that became family. His favorite past-time was time with family, walking his property and fishing his pond. All of us will miss him terribly.

Jean’s memories of their life together for the past 20 years include many wonderful experiences and fun times together. Bob filled her world with much love and happiness. He was the love of her life and she will miss him terribly. However, she knows he is in a better place and that they will be together again in the future. Robert will always be remembered with much love by all of us and we ask for your prayers during this time of grief.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. John David French and his granddaughter, Maria Elisabeth Machiels.

He is survived by his wife, Eugenia Stiles French of the home; his daughter and son-in-law, Susan Paige French Machiels & husband Paul of Concord, NC; his step-daughters, Alicia Stiles of Vinton and Sandra Stiles of Roanoke; three grandchildren, James Robert Machiels & wife Cassi of Charlotte, NC, Kimberly Machiels Purser & husband Brett of Concord, NC and Myra Brown of Vinton and four great-grandchildren, Mac, Theo, Madison and Logan.

The family will receive friends Saturday, September 27, 2014, from 10AM until 12Noon at McKee-Stone Funeral Home prior to the service.

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 27, 2014 at 12Noon at McKee-Stone Funeral Home, Martinsville Chapel with Dr. Jim Dickerson officiating.

Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, P. O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.

Arrangements are by McKee-Stone Funeral Home

To express condolences online, please visit www.collinsmckeestonemartinsville.com