David F. Arsenault

Calling hours will be held at the Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road Fitchburg on Thursday, July 23, 2020 from 4-7pm. The funeral Mass will be held at Saint Joseph’s Church, Fitchburg on Friday, July 24, 2020 at 12:00 noon. Burial will follow in Saint Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Fitchburg Police Relief Association, 20 Elm St., Fitchburg, MA 01420.



Fitchburg – David F. Arsenault, 72, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 20, 2020 following a five year heroic battle against cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Dave was born on April 9, 1948 and was a lifelong resident of Fitchburg where he spent many years living in the Cleghorn section of the city. All who knew Dave would clearly agree that he was one of Fitchburg’s Finest. He was the son of the late Francis and Santina (Grossi) Arsenault. He graduated from Fitchburg High School in 1966 and then worked for Simonds Saw and Steel for five years.

In 1972, Dave joined the Fitchburg Police Department where he proudly served for more than 32 years, retiring in 2004.  He was a highly regarded Detective for sixteen years among many police agencies. He was selected for certified specialized training, developing exceptional investigative skills; particularly in crime scene search and forensic photography, fingerprint identification, and arson investigation.  His expertise was sought in joint investigations with outside agencies including State Police C-PAC; State Fire Marshal’s Office; U.S. Treasury Dept., and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  His close coordination with the FBI led to the successful prosecution of four men responsible for the armored car robbery and shooting at the Shawmut Bank in May 1989.  Dave’s contributions to varied high profile investigations were numerous.  He served his fellow officers in the Police Relief Association, as President of the Local Union and on contract negotiation committees. In all aspects of his police career, he remained reliably committed to the highest professional standards. In 1985, Dave received a commendation for saving the life of a man umpiring who was stricken with a heart attack at Coolidge Park, while off-duty at the time. Dave was a member of the Mass Police Association, and served on the City of Fitchburg’s Liquor Commission from 2004-2010.

Following retirement, Dave was co-owner and operator of Luxury Motors in Fitchburg. He later returned to the Police Station as the auto mechanic, another skill in which he excelled, and worked until his illness. He was a charter member of the Marconi Club and belonged to the Fitchburg Weightlifting Club.

Dave was a sports enthusiast and for many years enjoyed coaching and umpiring both men and woman’s leagues. He was scouted and selected by the Canadian National Junior Olympic Committee and was honored to umpire their Cooper Tournament.

Dave especially loved spending time with all his grandchildren. He enjoyed NASCAR and attended many races with family and friends. For 18 years, he always looked forward to his time at his summer home in Old Orchard Beach Maine. He cherished his many vacations to the Caribbean with Paula. For years, Dave’s morning ritual was walking through Leominster State Park with his 2 best friends, Roscoe and Ruby.

He is survived by his significant other of 28 years, Paula Lincourt; his two children, Christine Arsenault and her companion Doug Prentiss of Hubbardston, Shane Arsenault of AZ; grandchildren Chad, Alicia, Danny Gould, and Matthew Arsenault; one great grandson, Jaxon Girouard. He is also survived by his two brothers, Michael Arsenault and his son Andrew of Fitchburg; John Arsenault and his wife Vicki, and their son Brendan of Westminster; and his precious black labs, Roscoe and Ruby.

Dave will forever be remembered by all those who knew him and had the pleasure of his friendship. In particular, his beloved extended family; Lawrence Lincourt; Linda and Bruce Teittinen; Joan David and children Jill and Kara; Donna and Frank Hiatt and children Adam, Ross, and Jessica; Barbara and Michael Couture; Larry Lincourt; Sandra Charpentier and children Matthew and Danielle.

The family would like to especially thank his dear friend Dr. Babineau, Dr. Ali and the team at the Burbank Cancer Center, Health Alliance Home Health and Hospice, and the caregivers from French Connection who all played an irreplaceable role in Dave’s care throughout his illness.