Joseph F. Arsenault

Joseph F. Arsenault, of Waltham, died Saturday, January 13, 2024 in Newton-Wellesley Hospital. He was 98.

Born in Waltham on September 29, 1925, he was the son of the late Joseph and Matilda (Doucet) Arsenault. A lifelong Waltham resident, he was a graduate of St. Pierre School and Waltham High School. 

During World War II he honorably served in the United States Navy and following his time in the service he began a 42 year career as a foreman for the City of Waltham. His happiest day came in 1947 when he married the love if his life, Doris Chiasson in Saint Joseph’s Church on Main Street. The pair shared 75 wonderful years together.

Joe was very active in the community and was a familiar and friendly face everywhere he went; he frequented the Moose Lodge, the French Club where he loved taking Doris for a night of dancing, and the Wal-Lex to bowl with friends. He and Doris also loved to travel. They took a trip of a lifetime to Europe on the occasion of their 25th wedding anniversary, and visited places like Hawaii, Bermuda, Canada, Atlantic City and more. Wherever he was, he always kept his mind busy with daily crossword puzzles and his latest book.  Joe was also a sports enthusiast playing hockey growing up, and as an adult, the golf course brought him a great sense of peace and joy; he was never one to rent a cart and always insisted on walking!

He is reunited with his son, the late Leonard J. Arsenault.

In addition to his beloved wife, Doris (Chiasson) Arsenault, he leaves his children, James P. Arsenault (Caren) of Taunton, Denise T. Hoyt Arsenault of Waltham, Gerald F. Arsenault (Joy) of Billerica, and Donald E. Arsenault of Carlisle; his daughter-in-law, Marie Arsenault of Rhode Island; nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren along with many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Joseph’s life by gathering for a calling hour in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, on Thursday, January 18th beginning at 10:30 a.m. followed by his funeral service at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Feake Cemetery, Waltham. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Special Olympics, at www.specialolympics.org or to the charity of one's choice.