Joseph Raymond Arsenault, 93, of Keene, passed peacefully while resting on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Woodlawn Care Center in Newport, NH.

He was born a son to the late Mary Ann (Bernard) and Benjamin Arsenault on May 15, 1930, in Gardner, MA.

On August 8, 1950, Joesph entered into the United States Air Force where he honorably served his country during the Korean War. He was stationed in the Aleutian Islands in Alaska as a Flight Radio Operator. He was also part of the 91st Air Refueling Squadron taking care of the KB29 Air Fueling Tankers. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Corporal on January 25, 1952.

On January 19, 1979, Joseph exchanged vows with the love of his life Evelyn (Wells) Arsenault. They were married in a simple service in Brattleboro, VT. surrounded by the love of their family and friends. They had been married for 45 years when Evelyn passed on April 27, 2014.

For many years he worked as a Residential and Commercial Painter for W.R. Painting as well as successfully managing a vending company for 6 years, retiring in 1992.

Joseph had many passions and joys in life some included woodworking and socializing. when he was younger he was a Judo Practitioner and even earned the title of New England Champion as a brown belt. He was the driving force behind “52 Veterans Transport” which was a program of the American Legion that offered free transportation for veterans to the VA Hospital for medical appointments. This program was successful for many years due in part of the many volunteer drivers and donations made by many individuals, veteran organizations, and business groups. This program is still offered today through the American Legion Post #4 in Keene.

Mr. Arsenault is survived by his children, Steven Arsenault and his wife Vicki of Keene, Brian K. Arsenault of VA., Christopher J. Arsenault of CA., his stepdaughter Dayle Best and her husband, Gary of South Deerfield, MA and his daughter-in-law Peggy of Shelley, ID. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Helen Arsenault of Deerfield Beach, FL., along with 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He is predeceased by his son, David P. Arsenault, his brother, John Arsenault and his sister Margeret Holmes

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at 11:00 am in Mountain View Cemetery, 875 Old Homestead Highway Swanzey, NH. 03446. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Joseph’s name to the American Legion Post #4. Services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com