Longtime member of the Sons of the American Legion, Raymond “Frenchy” Roland Rossignol, 76, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, died unexpectedly at his home on Friday, February 16, 2024. A graveside ceremony will be held at 3 p.m., Monday, February 26, 2024, at Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff with Chaplain Bruce Bain officiating. A reception will follow at 5 p.m. at the Gering American Legion Post 36. Cremation has taken place in accordance with his wishes. Memorials may be directed to the Gering American Legion Post 36. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Frenchy’s obituary page viewable at www.reverencefuneralparlor.com, where the graveside service will also be live-streamed.
Ray was born August 29, 1947, in Elizabeth, New Jersey to Roland and Loretta (Clevette) Rossignol. He grew up with one brother, David, and a sister, Arlene.
He was heavily involved in the American Legion. He was rarely seen without his personalized denim jacket decorated with SAL patches and the American flag. The rare times he was not donning the jacket, he was dressed in uniform to assist with military honors of our Nation’s fallen veterans. When his mobility decreased, that did not stop Ray from continuing his legion duties. He would arrive at the cemetery in his white Chevy truck and unload a walker he used to safely trek across the cemetery grounds. He then stationed himself among his SAL peers and waited for his moment to play TAPS.
For most of his life his signature look was long hair and a matching beard. He became a Santa look-alike when his long locks whitened, and he was eventually recruited to be the legion’s “Santa” during the Christmas season.
Ray was a motorcycle enthusiast throughout his life. He enjoyed getting together for bike run events with other riders and Sons of the Legion members. He also participated in many bike shows over the years.
Despite his rough biker appearance and his notorious, “the Hell I can’t” attitude, Ray, lovingly known by his friends as “Frenchy”, had one of the kindest hearts. He was giving, eager to help and a loyal friend. He will be deeply missed.
Survivors include his brother, David Rossignol; sister, Arlene (Tom) Bernard; daughter, Kara (Darrin) Cannady and another daughter; son, Richard (Sherri) Rossignol; grandchildren, Kelsey, Jacob, Keaton, Madisyn, and Macy; extended family members; his American Legion brothers and sisters; and a host of friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roland and Loretta Rossignol; and loving partner and companion, Sandra Gillett in 2022.