Matt French, 48, of Smithville, MO passed away, January 12, 2017.

He was born on December 16, 1968 to Donald Ray and Joyce Jane (Atkins) French in Smithville, MO.  Matt grew up in Smithville and in 1987, graduated from Smithville High School.  He then attended Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, MO where he served as the President of the Student Government and the President of Theta Chi Fraternity.  He graduated in 1992 with his Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Engineering. 

Matt worked for Garney Companies as a superintendent and enjoyed helping his father Don on the farm.  He was an Eagle Scout with Boy Scout Troop #412 in Smithville.  Matt was a member of the First Christian Church in Smithville and the Pontiac Oakland Club International.  He was an avid car enthusiast and was excellent with mechanics and auto body restoration.  Matt enjoyed restoring classic cars and spending time with his family, especially his children. 

He was preceded in death by his father Don French.

Matt is survived by his children Cassidy Rae and Colton Matthew “Cole” French and their mother Mindi French; mother Joyce French; brother Clint French and wife Bridget; sister Brooke French; niece and nephew Adelyn and Kellan French; several aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

Funeral Service:  1:00 p.m. Monday January 16th at First Christian Church in Smithville with visitation from 11:00-1:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

Burial:  Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Smithville

Donations may be made to the First Christian Church memorial Fund or the Boy Scout Troop #412