Born in 1952 in Monongahela, Pennsylvania, to loving parents Anna Mae and August France, a young man with a free spirit and a heart full of dreams set out on an unforgettable journey. In 1970, he left the rolling hills of Pennsylvania on a Harley Davidson, riding west toward a new life. He arrived in Arizona, pulling onto Mill Avenue in Tempe, where his adventurous soul found purpose in building community. His early involvement in the Mill Avenue Street Fair would eventually help inspire the beloved 4th Avenue Street Fair in Tucson—places where art, music, and people came together, just as he always believed they should.

Not long after, he found his way to the pine-covered mountains of Mormon Lake. It was there, amid nature's quiet strength, that he sharpened his many talents into a lifelong love for carpentry. In the early 1980s, he made Flagstaff his home and planted deep roots by founding Keystone West, a cabinetry business built on craftsmanship, care, and a handshake you could count on. His passion and skill soon grew into a larger vision, and he expanded with Northern Arizona Top Shop and his construction company, Key Wes—both testaments to his dedication to quality and integrity.

But his life wasn't only measured in wood grains and blueprints. His heart beat strongest when helping others. He proudly participated in building Flagstaff's very first Habitat for Humanity home and later became a generous supporter of the cause. He believed everyone deserved a place to call home—and he did what he could to make that a reality for others.

A true outdoorsman, he was happiest riding his Harley, working in his back yard with his John Deere tractor, or sharing laughs with friends and family around a fire. His home was always open, a place where all were welcome and memories were made.

He will be remembered for his unshakable generosity, his quick wit and warm laugh, his deep love of community, and the quiet way he made everyone feel like family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Bernadine, brother, August (Debbie), and his loyal fur babies Paris and Buddy, goddaughters, Olivia, AvaB, and Mariah, who adored him, a cherished niece, Robyn, and a wide circle of cousins and friends who were blessed to know him.

Though he has taken his final ride, his spirit lingers in every sunset over Arizona, every road trip down a dusty trail, and every act of kindness paid forward in his memory.

Ride free, rest easy, and know you are so deeply loved.

Service will be held on May 16, 2025, at 9:30am at San Francisco de Asis in Flagstaff, Arizona and a reception to follow at the Elks Lodge at 12pm.