RUMFORD – Philip T. Theriault, 81, died Tuesday, Feb. 12, at his residence on Maple Street, Rumford, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Rumford, on Dec. 16, 1926, a son of Docithe and Delena (Boissoneault) Theriault. A high school graduate, he attended Rumford schools.

Phil served with the fighting Merchant Marine and was discharged from the U.S. Coast Guard, and then served in the U.S. Army as a private first class, Cannon Company, 39th Inf. Regt., 9th Inf. Div. during World War II, including overseas in Italy.

He worked in the color plant at Oxford Paper Co. for more than 40 years until retirement in 1987.

He was a communicant of St. Athanasius-St. John Church; life member and past commander of Robert Shand Post 1641, VFW and served as state safety officer for the VFW; member Napoleon Ouellette Post 24, American Legion; life member LeParesseux Snowshoe Club; 3rd degree member Fr. Ambrose J. Barry Council 2091, K of C; Webb River Fish and Game Club; member Four Pond Camp Owners Association.

He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing at his camp on Round Pond. He also enjoyed building radio controlled model airplanes, travel and ice speed skating.

He was married to the former Theresa L. LeBlanc for 59 years, who survives him of Rumford. They were married in Mexico, on Nov. 3, 1948.

Other survivors include daughters, Kathleen Brooks and her husband, Randy, of Peru and Sandra Drapeau and her husband, James, of Mexico; sons, Timothy of Boston, Mass., Peter of Alna and Thomas Theriault and wife, Ellie, of Mexico; grandchildren, Jasmine and Jacob Brooks of Peru.

He was predeceased by 10 brothers and sisters.