AUGUSTA – Francis J. “Big Cussy” Arsenault Sr., 61, of Mexico, passed away on Sunday, June 12, in Togus with his family at his side.

He was born in Rumford, on Jan. 13, 1944, a son of Angelique and Augustine Arsenault. He attended Mexico schools and was a graduate of Mexico High School Class of 1962.

Francis proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

In his youth, he was known to be a daredevil on skis and was a serious contender at cross country running. In the summer months, he would go to the carnival and box for ribbons.

His passions in life were fishing, hunting, berry picking and exploring his surroundings. On many different adventures while in the wilderness, he became one with nature.

Francis had many jobs and in his recent years was a self-employed handyman.

He always enjoyed being with his family and friends and was a teller of tall tales. Family gatherings were always a great source of joy for him. His greatest joy in life was his son “little” Cussy, and he was truly proud of all of his accomplishments in life. Francis enjoyed any and all time spent with his grandson Damien, and was known to ignore everyone else to give him his undivided attention. “He loved being grandpa!”

He met and fell in love with Peggy Libby four years ago, which seemed like a lifetime. They recently sealed their wedding vows and she truly honored the words “In sickness and in health,” by holding his hand, along with his son and grandson, throughout the past two trying years. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Surviving are his wife Margaret (Libby) Arsenault of Mexico; a son, Francis Joseph Arsenault Jr. and companion of 11 years, Michele, of Rumford; three stepsons, Dennis Calden and wife, Colleen, of Mexico, Ricky Calden and wife, Melanie, of Rumford, Ronnie Calden and wife, Gayle, of Richmond; a stepdaughter, Cathy Calden of Poland; a sister, Anna “Diane” Kimball and husband, Paul “Kim,” of Lewiston; four brothers; Andrew Arsenault of Mexico, Audie Arsenault of East Andover, Leo Arsenault and wife, Sue, of Mexico, and James Arsenault and wife, Connie, of Mexico; one grandson, Damien Joseph Arsenault; several stepgrandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, and a brother, Willie Arsenault, of Dixfield.