RUMFORD — Ernest J. Arsenault, 74, of Essex Avenue in Rumford, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 24, at Rumford Hospital.

He was born in Rumford, a son of Joseph and Delia Arsenault. Ernie was educated in Rumford schools. He lived in Milford, Mass., for many years and was employed for 27 years with Wonder Bread in Natick, Mass., returning to Rumford in 2002.

Ernie was a communicant of Parish of the Holy Savior and a member of the LeParesseux Snowshoe Club. He loved gardening, doing puzzle books, playing cards and dice with his wife, Jean, and spending time with his family. He also loved following all of the New England sports teams.

Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Jean (Gilks) Arsenault, of Rumford; his children, Lynn Rolo and husband, Armando, of Milford, Mass., Daniel Arsenault and wife, Ann, of Tennessee, David Arsenault and wife, Tuyet, of Gray, Julie Chapman and husband, Cliff, of Rumford and Paul Arsenault and companion, Alissa Trezzi; a sister, Anita McKellick and husband, Larry, of South Carolina; and 17 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents; an infant daughter, Paula; three sisters, Rita Shaw, Jeannette Belanger and Theresa McDonald; and five brothers, Henry, Alfred, Norman, Junior and Raymond Arsenault.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Arsenault family by visiting their guest book at www.SGThibaultFuneralHome.com.