Arsene J. Cusson

NEW BEDFORD — Arsene J. Cusson, 90, of Acushnet, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2009, at St. Luke's Hospital, after a long illness. He was the long-time companion of the late Claire Saucier and the son of the late Edmond and Marie Anne (Tetreault) Cusson.

He was born in Fairhaven and lived most of his life in Acushnet.

Mr. Cusson was a highly decorated veteran of WW II and was the recipient of the Bronze Star for meritorious service during the Battle of the Bulge. While serving in Europe his company liberated the prisoner of war camp where his brother Leo was held captive, unfortunately they did not meet. He served in the battles of Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes and Central Europe.

Mr. Cusson rose to the rank of Deputy Fire Chief at Otis Air Base where he served for many years. After retiring from this civil service position he served as the Fire Chief for the town of Acushnet for 10 years. He was voted Acushnet's 1985 man of the year. He was a member and former Post Commander of the American Legion Post 265.

Survivors include his two brothers, Eugene J. Cusson and his late wife, Helene (Gratton) of Wareham and Edward M. Cusson and his wife, Doris of Winchester; sisters-in-law, Simonne Cusson and Estelle Cusson, both of Acushnet; many nieces and nephews.

He was the brother of the late Edmond, Paul, Leo and Raymond Cusson and his late wife, Patricia (Cuttle).

Visitation will be Friday evening 5-8 PM at Rock Funeral Home. His Funeral will be on Saturday at 8 AM from the Funeral Home followed by his Funeral Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church, Acushnet at 9 AM. Interment at Sacred Heart Cemetery.