Joseph Raymond Arsenault, formerly of Bedford, died peacefully on February 5, 2018, in Attleboro.

Ray was born and raised in Somerville and was the son of the late Augustine and Rosella (Gaudet) Arsenault.

Ray proudly served in the United State Navy during WWII from 1943-1946 as an Aviation Electronic Technician's Mate, First Class. Following his military service, he attended Northeastern University where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering.

For 30 years, he was employed as an electrical engineer with Raytheon in Bedford. He was a manager in the Missile Systems Division leading a team working on the Patriot Missile.

He was a charter member of the Lexington Lodge of Elks and maintained membership for 72 years. In his retirement years Ray served as a volunteer at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington. He was a longtime parishioner at St. Michael's Church in Bedford and also attended mass at St. Malachy's Parish in Burlington.   As an avid wood-carver, Ray used his talents to honor his love of the Church and donated a hand-carved sign which is proudly displayed in front of St. Malachy's.

Ray summered with his family on Long Beach in Gloucester for many years. He loved the ocean and spent endless hours fishing and boating with family and friends.

He relocated from Bedford to Naples, Florida in 2004 where he continued to enjoy his retirement.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 45 years, Jean B. (Gunning) Arsenault and his brothers Robert, Francis and Ralph.

He is survived by his wife, Annamae, his brother Melvin and wife Jackie, and his sister Anne. He is also survived by his son Kenneth and wife Gail of Groveland, his daughter Cheryl and husband Michael Mullen of Seekonk, and his son Michael and wife Jeanne of Billerica. Additionally, he is survived by seven grandchildren, Danielle, Katie, Kirsten, Connor, Ryan, Michael and Sarah.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Lung Association, National Direct Response Headquarters, 1200 Hosford St., Suite 101, Hudson, WI 54016.

Ray set a fine example for others and always exemplified Christianity by the way he lived his life. Ray will forever be remembered for his love of life, love of family, wonderful sense of humor and his positive outlook on life. Ray will be dearly missed by many but will forever remain a presence in our lives.