Loretta J. French, age 90, of Collins passed away Tuesday morning, May 27, 2025 at Bertrand Chaffee Hospital in Springville, surrounded by family. She was born in Springville on February 11, 1935, the daughter of Wallace and Nettie (Hintz) Ranke.
Loretta was a Registered Nurse at the former Gowanda Psychiatric Center and later retired from the Buffalo Psychiatric Center. Her nursing career spanned more than 30 years.
Loretta loved her faith and was a member of various church groups, including the Kaleidoscope Ministries and the Family Church of South Dayton. Loretta devoted many years volunteering for the Tri-County Crisis Pregnancy Center in Gowanda.
Loretta married Dr. Everett E. French. Together, they enjoyed much travel in retirement. Everett passed away on November 28, 2004.
Loretta was a very social person, cultivating many precious relationships throughout life. She enjoyed bowling and playing euchre, where she was known for her sense of humor and love of a good time. Her neighbors became like family to her, and her pets were her constant companions.
Survivors include a son, Joseph L. (Lori) DeCarlo of Collins, NY and Clearwater, FL; grandchildren Louis DeCarlo, Leah Marie (Zach Spire) DeCarlo and John DeCarlo; a sister in-law, Ruth Ranke; her nieces, Deborah Pett and Beth Spina; nephew, Paul Ranke; along with Doc's daughters, Linda Takats, Leslie (David) Honeychurch and their families. Loretta was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, David Ranke; and sister, Marilyn Dunkleman. Both David and Marilyn passed away in April 2021.
Friends may call on Friday, June 6 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Schindler Funeral Home, 44 Center Street in Gowanda, where funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 7 at 10:00 AM. Interment to follow in the Maplewood Cemetery in Springville. Pastor and friend Mike Anderson will officiate.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to Family Church, 213 Pine Street, South Dayton, NY 14138; or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, System Island, NY 10306.
