Jack France

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My condolences to Roddy, Cindy, Jeff and the rest of the family. Mr. France (always addressed him that way) had a strong influence on my life and love of the outdoors. His leadership to Troop 23 and his caring for youth steered me to be a Scout leader for the past 30+ years. Although I will not be able to be at his remembrance, I will always have his spirit in my heart.

It is difficult at times to be able to express the influence and meaning an individual may have as they pass through life. As the scoutmaster of Troop 23, Jack France was a role model to hundreds of young men in their most formative years of life. To me, Jack France was one of the rocks in the foundation of my formative years. I can recall till this day, campouts where it would be pouring rain (it seemed it always rained on campouts) and Jack France in his cap and brown vest with a cigar in the corner of his mouth walking patrol site to patrol site, knowing each and every scout name making sure they were buttoned tight in the storm, giving direction, encouragement and guidance. I am a better man for knowing and having Jack France as part of my passage from a child to a young man...we all were better for him as being a part of our lives. Rest in Peace Jack as you sit by the eternal campfire in the garden of heaven. - Bruce Berger, Troop 23 1975-1982

I will always remember Jack France as my Scoutmaster. I’ve been meaning to look him up for years and thank him for his impact on me as a youth. He always had kind words to say to point us in the right direction. I left Troop 23 as Second Class but he tried to get me to return. I moved on and all these years later I found myself in Scoutmaster shoes for 14 years now. Both my sons have earned Eagle, one in 2013 and one last night. Many fond memories of the Troop campout and summer camp. 1975-1978