Marian Arpan French

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Marian Arpan French, 97, on August 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Marian was born on July 24, 1928, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Florence Larsen and Samuel Arpan. She graduated from Rapid City High School. A proud member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Marian carried her heritage with her throughout her life.

On May 1, 1949, Marian married Glen French in Rapid City. They built a beautiful life and a family of four children: Kathi French of Huntley, Montana; Patricia (Roger) Zimdars of Sheridan, Wyoming; Mike (Jennene) French of Rapid City, South Dakota; and Mark French. Together, Marian and Glen owned and operated French Cleaners for 22 years before retiring and moving to Yuma, Arizona, in 1993. Marian returned to Rapid City in 2019 to be closer to her family.

Marian is survived by three of her four children, eight grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Glen, her son Mark and her great-grandson Austin.

Her interment will be at Black Hills National Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest alongside her husband, Glen, for all eternity.

Services with Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.

May the sun renew your strength each day,

and the moon softly restore you by night;

May warm rains wash away your fears,

and breezes blow gently on your teepee;

May your moccasins leave happy tracks,

no matter where you shall go;

And may the Great Spirit's blessings

be with you and yours always.