Coburn Gore, – Thomas J. French, 42, of 78 Houghton St. in Auburn, died unexpectedly Monday, May 25.

He was born in Lewiston January 17, 1967, the son of Brian and Carole (Keith) French. Tom was educated in Auburn schools, graduated from Edward Little High School class of 1985 and remained a lifelong resident of this community.

On November 19, 1988 he married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Michele V. Rancourt of Auburn at St. Mary’s Church in Lewiston. Together they settled in Auburn as they began to raise their two daughters.

Tom was currently employed as an equipment operator at the public works department for the city of Auburn, where he had worked for the past 25 years.

He was a loving and extremely devoted husband and father who truly enjoyed the simple pleasures of family life. He had tremendous love and support for his daughters throughout their childhood and growing years, as he was always there to applaud and support their many academic and sports-related activities and achievements.

He was a conscientious hard worker who loved to stay busy, and never did anything unless it was done correctly. He loved to read and research everything before buying, building or repairing anything. His proudest accomplishment was the shed he built from start to finish last summer; he gleamed every time he looked at it.

Tom often enjoyed time away from work by just staying home, working around the house and spending time outdoors with Michele and the girls. Despite suffering from arthritis most of his life, he was always willing to lend a helping hand, and his delightful wit was enjoyed by all who knew him. He loved his music and loved to watch Seinfeld re-runs. He often displayed his terrific sense of humor, especially at family get-togethers. “Giddy-up,” Tom!

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Michele French of Auburn; two daughters, Brittney and Taylor French of Auburn; his mother, Carole French of Lewiston; his father, Brian French, and his wife, Gloria, of Mechanic Falls; four brothers and sisters, Scott French of Minot, Nancy French of Auburn, Jessica French of Lewiston and Dennis French of Minot; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Louise and Roland Rancourt of Auburn; his sister-in-law Sandra Masters and husband, Tom, of Auburn, brother-in-law Michael Rancourt and wife, Melissa, of Gorham; nine nieces and nephews, Laurie French, D.J. French and his wife, Allie, MaryKate and Jaclyn Masters, Katherine McDonough, Matthew Rancourt, Joshua Rancourt, Alexis Morneau, Tyler Rancourt; and many other loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He will be sadly missed and loved by all.

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