NWA Capt. Wayne French

 

~ IN MEMORY ~

Military veteran, NWA Capt. Wayne French

May 5, 1941 ~ April 29, 2026

 

Captain Wayne Howard French joined Northwest Airlines 12-06-1965 and retired with Northwest in 2001.  Wayne is survived by his wife Ginny, and by his children and their families.

At Wayne's request, no services will be held.

PCN memorial site

 

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/wayne-french-obituary?id=61405357

 

Wayne French Obituary

Published by Legacy on May 5, 2026.

Wayne French, a man whose life radiated faith, kindness, and a quiet strength, passed away peacefully on April 29th, at the age of 84. Born to Webster and Sarah French of Osnabrock, North Dakota, Wayne was one of five (very tall) brothers. He attended college at North Dakota State University, where he began dating his cherished life partner, Ginny Sanders. He followed his older brother Herb's footsteps and joined the Air National Guard in 1964. Wayne and Ginny married in 1966 and settled in Edina, Minnesota. Wayne enjoyed a wonderful 35-year career as a commercial airline pilot for Northwest Airlines, retiring in 2001 as an international B747-200 captain. In retirement, he enjoyed "chasing trains", following the Thunderbirds and the Blue Angels, and working on his John Deere tractor. Wayne's wit was subtle yet sharp, often sparking laughter in the most unexpected moments, and his warmth made everyone feel welcome. All dogs would gravitate toward him, tails wagging, sensing his goodness instantly. Wayne was a devoted man of God. He lived out his deep faith, daily, actively studying the Bible and weaving it into aspects of his life. Wayne is deeply missed by Ginny, his loving wife of nearly 60 years. He is survived by his brother Curt; children Scot French and Kristine Beer (Patrick); granddaughters Avery, Hadley, Maggie, Lauren, Cambrie, Finley, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Ernie, Herb, and Jerry French. At Wayne's request, no services will be held. He will be interred at Eden Prairie Cemetery. Keep airspeed.