1955 – 2014

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Robert “Bob,” “Robbie” Arsenault, 59, formerly of Peru, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at the Pittsburgh, Pa. Veterans Medical Center, where he was hoping to receive a liver transplant. In spite of the challenges of his disease, he was unfailingly positive and upbeat, spreading laughter and good cheer with his quick wit.

Robert was born in Rumford on Feb. 16, 1955, to Albert. J. Arsenault Sr. and Marian L. (Turner) Arsenault. Rob served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War era. He took great pride in his service to his country and remained committed to the interests of veterans.

After his discharge, he settled in the Springfield, Mass., area and worked as a union carpenter for many years. Wanting to be closer to his family, he returned home to Maine, where he bought a house and spent many hours with his brothers working on renovation projects, cutting firewood and enjoying life with his dogs, Nikki and Sonic.

As a young boy, he and his brother, Al, loved fishing with their dad and Uncle Lucien at his uncle’s Rangeley camp.

Robert is survived by his siblings, Ann (David), Susan (Leo) and Todd; nieces and nephews, Kim, Ami (Kurt), Matthew (Destiny), Kristi (Paul), Mike and Breanne (Craig); and their children, Pete, Aidan, Roman, Henrietta, Brooke, Jordan, Lacey, Lindsay, Delsi and Jarni; his sister-in-law, Jan Arsenault; his stepmother, Susan Knox Arsenault and family; uncle, Lucien Arsenault; and aunt, Theresa Giambattista.

He was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Marian; his brother, Albert Jr.; and stepsister, Betsy Knox.

His family wishes to thank the Togus VA and the Pittsburgh, Pa. VA Medical Center and their staffs who went above and beyond in their care of Rob. Special thanks to Rob’s “angel,” cousin, Marie Freeman, and also to cousin and neighbor, Frank Arsenault, for their ready willingness to lend a hand. Rob said many times how much he appreciated their love and support.