Leonard Gregory Arsenault

Leonard Gregory Arsenault, of Leominster, Massachusetts, passed on May 12, 2025 in Worcester surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 14, 1948, Leonard lived a life defined by devotion to family, service to his country, and a spirit of generosity. Intellectually curious with a spirit of rebellion, Leonard was a man of conscience, justice, and compassion.

Surrounded by 14 beloved cousins, Leonard and his sister, Katherine, were raised in a close-knit, multi-generational, multi-family home their father and uncle bought together after serving in WWII. This deep-rooted sense of family shaped Leonard into the devoted father he would become. He lovingly adopted his eldest daughter, Heather, when she was six months old, and embraced fatherhood with joy following the births of Sarah, Aaron, and Michelle. He was a playful and affectionate grandfather to his grandsons Stephen and Liam. Leonard delighted in taking his children on camping and hiking trips throughout New England, creating cherished memories on trails up Wachusett Mountain, Mount Monadnock, and in the White Mountains—instilling in them a lifelong love of the natural world.

In his later years, Leonard met and married the love of his life, Patricia. Upon learning on their first date that she worked with preschoolers, he quipped, “You handle two-year-olds all day? Then you can handle me!” Together they shared many joyful years, enjoying daily walks near their Westminster home, outings to Dunn State Park and Wachusett Mountain, and the companionship of their beloved cat, Coolidge.

Leonard was guided by his Catholic upbringing to serve as a conscientious objector when drafted into the Vietnam War. Refusing to carry a gun, he served courageously on the front lines as an army combat medic, risking his life to save others. His bravery earned him multiple commendations: Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars; Army Commendation Medal; Bronze Star Medal with V Device with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster.

After the war, Leonard earned a degree in Chemistry from Fitchburg State College, leading to a career as a chemist. Yet it was his later role as a school bus driver that brought him the most joy. His genuine love for children made the job a delight—whether playing Jam’n 94.5 on morning routes or sharing jokes and laughter with his young passengers.

Leonard loved animals, was an avid chess player, and enjoyed music from Bob Dylan and Bach to 50 Cent. He was a lifelong runner who proudly finished the Boston Marathon and loved taking his dogs on trail runs.

Leonard is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia (Cahill) Arsenault; his children Heather, Sarah, Aaron, and Michelle Arsenault; his grandsons Stephen and Liam; his sister Katherine (Arsenault) Firmani; the mother of his children Marcia (Smith) Arsenault; and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Adelard Joseph Arsenault and Geraldine Anne (Fortunato) Arsenault, and cousins Denis, Roger, Janice, Jimmy Arsenault, and Kathie (Arsenault) Estes.

Leonard leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, humor, and compassion. He will be remembered for his generous spirit and steadfast support of those he loved. His memory will continue to guide and inspire all who knew him.

A brief committal service with military honors will be held on May 29th at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery (111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon, MA). Guests are kindly asked to arrive between 1:40 and 1:50 p.m. and park in the spaces behind the chapel near the visitor center. A gathering to share stories and celebrate Leonard’s life will follow at the Winchendon American Legion on School Street. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in support of veterans at operationservice.net, via Paypal @Operationservice, or by mail: Operation Service, 45 Dailey Terrace, Fitchburg, MA 01420.