David Benjamin Arsenault

David Benjamin Arsenault, 66, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at UNC Health in Chapel Hill, NC, surrounded by the love of his family.

David was a man of many gifts: a skilled tradesman, a passionate educator, and above all, a devoted father, brother, and friend. He learned the trades from his father and brother and moved to Maine during high school, helping to build what would become the family neighborhood for generations to come. As a young man, he carried his love for hockey and motorcycles, building friendships that would last a lifetime. David never met a stranger - he could capture a room with a story, leaving laughter and wisdom behind in equal measure.

He graduated from Maine Central Institute in 1976, later earning an associate's degree from the University of Maine. His calling to education led him back to Husson University, where he completed his bachelor's degree in education. David went on to dedicate several years to special education, where he combined his love of teaching with his knowledge of the trades, passing on skills and confidence to his students.

More than his work, David's greatest joy was his family. He was a proud home-dad, raising his two children and opening his home and heart to all their friends along the way. Known for his legendary blueberry pancakes and warm chocolate chip cookies, he never missed a track meet, field hockey game, or school event. He poured his talents into every detail of their lives - from crafting homecoming field hockey sticks to building Santa's sleigh for the elementary school play. With a gift for turning simple ideas into lasting memories, David made childhood magical.

He loved showing Elly and Ben the city of Boston, whittling sticks by the fire on camping trips, and bringing every fun dream to life. In his later years, retirement gave him the chance to slow down, to golf, to travel the world with his kids, and to enjoy long beach walks with his beloved granddogs.

David's legacy lives on in his daughter, Eleanor, and her partner, Cameron, and his son, Benjamin. He is also survived by his siblings: Herbert Arsenault and wife Alyce, Arlene Ward and husband Chuck, Phyllis Good and husband Max, Janice Corkran, Judy Richardson, and brother-in-law Trent Richardson. David was a beloved uncle to 17 nieces and nephews, 34 great-nieces and nephews, and several great-great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Eleanor Arsenault; his brother-in-law, Kim Corkran; and his best friend, Rob Marcia.

David will be remembered for his generosity, his humor, and the way he made everyone feel like family. He was a storyteller, a teacher, a builder, and a man whose love will echo through the lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held in David's beloved New England at a later date.