AUGUSTA - - George E. Arsenault, age 52, of Wire Bridge Road, New Portland, passed away on Sunday March 22, 2009 at Maine General Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born in Rumford on Dec. 15, 1956 a son of Euclide and Beatrice Arsenault.

George attended Rumford schools and was a graduate of Rumford High School Class of 1975.

He married Jacky Chenard on Dec. 28, 1981. Together they celebrated 27 years of marriage.

George was employed at Cianbro as a craft trainer. He was instrumental in the development of his craft manuals. His knowledge and enthusiasm of his craft has been spread far and wide during his 21 years of service.

He was a communicant of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Farmington and enjoyed his Bible studies.

George loved playing the guitar. He was an outdoorsman who loved hunting. He was an avid NASCAR fan, and his latest interest was following the Professional Bull Riding Circuit.

Surviving are his wife, Jacky (Chenard) Arsenault; three sisters, Elyse Briggs and husband, Robert, of Rumford, Corinne Jackamore and husband, Dave, of Denver, Col., and Rachel Arsenault and husband, Mark, of Winthrop; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Euclide and Beatrice Arsenault.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, March 27, 2009 at Parish of the Holy Savior in Rumford.

If so desired contributions in his memory may be made to Relay For Life (Friends & Family Ties) c/o Dise Dunham, 58 Narrow Gage Street Kingfield, Maine 04947.

Relatives and friends may pay tribute to George at www.mem.com.