Arthur C. Birch

Rochester - Arthur C. Birch, 84, of Portland Street died Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015, at the Frisbie Memorial Hospital after a brief illness.

Born May 16, 1931, in Rochester, he was the son of the late Arthur L. and Martha (Boggs) Birch. Mr. Birch was a lifelong resident of Rochester. He was a graduate of Spaulding High School Class of 1950 and continued his studies at the University of New Hampshire in Durham. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he proudly served four years as a Seabee. During this time he became an original plank holder for MCB-6. Upon returning home he worked in management for seacoast area LP companies and later was employed in the nuclear department at Portsmouth Naval Ship Yard. Locally he was very involved in town politics and served in Ward 1 as moderator, selectman and councilor. He volunteered every Friday for the U.S. Forest Service as a trail adopter and cared for Edmands Path in Crawford Notch for 19 years. He was very passionate for conservation being a member of the Forest Society of New Hampshire and Appalachian Mountain Club and served on the Rochester Conservation Commission. He enjoyed many outdoor activities. He was a member of the Bethany United Methodist Church where he served as a trustee.

Members of his family include his wife of 53 years, Grace (Brown) Birch of Rochester; a sister, Ellen Potvin of Rochester; and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Cecil R. Birch, and a sister, Martha O'Hern.

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services: Memorial contributions may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church, 24 Main St., East Rochester. There are no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held in the spring. Arrangements are in the care of the R.M. Edgerly & Son Funeral Home, 86 South Main St., Rochester, NH 03867.