Lionel J. Arsenault
Beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and friend,
Lionel J. Arsenault, 95, of Dracut, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 8, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.
He was the beloved husband of the late Phyllis (Skaff) Arsenault, who passed away on March 1, 2021.
Lionel was born to Pierre and Florida (Champagne) Arsenault on March 10, 1928, in Lowell, Massachusetts. He attended Lowell schools and graduated from Lowell High School.
A true patriot, Lionel served his country with honor during World War II and the Korean War. Enlisting at the young age of 16 ½, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy's Seabees Battalion. His brave service earned him several medals, including the WWII Victory Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Medal, and the American Area Medal. Following the conclusion of WWII, Lionel joined the United States Merchant Marines. His commitment and dedication embodied the spirit of the "Greatest Generation."
After the war, Lionel pursued a degree in industrial engineering from Lowell Technological Institute (UMass Lowell). He embarked on a successful career in engineering, making notable contributions to projects such as the 1969 Apollo Moon Landing Mission and the M.I.T. Lincoln Labs satellite programs. Lionel retired as a manufacturing engineer with Textron Specialty Materials.
Lionel was an active St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church member, where he held various roles, including Parish Council President and Treasurer. He also served as an usher for many years, exemplifying his deep faith.
In addition to his professional achievements and community involvement, Lionel had diverse interests and hobbies. He was a private pilot, a professional photographer, a talented musician, and a licensed ham radio operator. He found joy in building and repairing clocks, playing golf, and immersing himself in the extensive study of U.S. history. Above all, Lionel cherished his time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Lionel is survived by his two sons, Jeffrey Arsenault and his fiancée Carolyn Pires of Andover; Peter Arsenault and his wife Karin of Dracut; along with his daughter Laurie Andersson and her husband Robert of Dracut. He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Gregory Arsenault, Matthew Arsenault, Kyle Arsenault, Michael Andersson, Zachary Andersson, and Nikki Andersson.
Notably, Lionel was the 21st of 22 children born to his parents, Pierre and Florida. His passing marks the end of an extraordinary lineage.
Lionel J. Arsenault will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his love, strength, and unwavering commitment to his family, country, and community.
Private Funeral Services will be held for the immediate family.
E-condolences at www.odonnellfuneralhome.com. Those wishing may make contributions in his memory to ST. GEORGE ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH 44 Bowers St., Lowell, MA 01854.
Arrangements by the O'DONNELL FUNERAL HOME – LOWELL – MA (978) 459-8768.
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