David G. French, 81, of Newtown, passed away Monday morning, December 2, 2019, at his home.

He was born in Bridgeport to the late Russell French and Mary Barna French.

He was a home builder and developer of hundreds of homes in Newtown since 1962, working together with his wife, Carol, who is a realtor. In his early years, David volunteered with the Newtown Ambulance Service. He was also a member of Hiram Lodge in Sandy Hook. In 1970, he was presented with the Joseph H.A. Symonds Award. David was also a member of the East End Yacht Club in Stratford, Conn., where he docked his boat.

He was past president of Newtown Fish and Game Club for over 40 years. David had a significant impact on the growth and improvement of the club, with up to 500 members under his tenure. He was instrumental in securing several properties in the Newtown area as far back as the 1970s, based on his relationships with many Newtown property owners. He started the Field Trial Program, as well. He is responsible for the purchase and development of the West Meetinghouse Road property in New Milford.

David had many interests. He loved hunting and fishing with his sons, David and Michael. He enjoyed sport fishing, from Cabo San Lucas to Alaska, and family vacations in the Florida Keys. He had a passion for gardening and always had a large vegetable garden. He enjoyed giving away to others what they could not use. David and Carol loved touring the country in their Bluebird Coach and enjoying the great people and places they saw along the way. It was the greatest tailgate party you could ever attend. It was also great when they had the company of their two grandchildren, Hunter and Casey.

David and his wife, Carol, were married for 61 unbelievable, happy years. Whether it was business or pleasure, they were always together. Both David and Carol loved dancing and always had fun.

David is survived by his wife, Carol; son, Michael; daughter-in-law, Terri French; and grandchildren, Hunter and Casey.

He was predeceased by his son, David F. French.

A Celebration of Life for David French will be at Newtown Country Club, 2 Country Club Road, on Sunday, December 15, 2019, from 1 to 4 pm.