Donald Francis Arseneau DSc

Donald F. Arseneau, DSc., born in St. John, New Brunswick, was the son of the late John Robert and Audrey Violet (Maher) Arseneau. He graduated from St. Francis Xavier University with a BSc (Chemistry) and Engineering Diploma in 1950. Following a year of teaching, he moved to Quebec City to attend Laval University where be obtained his Doctor of Science (DSc) in Chemistry in 1955 and later, in 1963, undertook post doctoral research at the University of Saskatchewan. While in Quebec, he met his life partner and loving wife R Grace (McGrath) Arseneau.

As an educator, community volunteer, devoted husband and father of ten children, Don has long been associated with post-secondary education in Cape Breton. His academic teaching career includes St. F.X. University, Xavier College, College of Cape Breton, and University College of Cape Breton, now Cape Breton University.

A professor of chemistry, Dr. Arseneau was a much sought-after lecturer. Outside of the classroom he served on the Board of Governors, Academic Council, and committees such as Rank and Tenure, Evaluation of Research and College Expansion. Additionally, he served as Director of the Alexander Graham Bell Institute, the Centre for Occupational Health and Safety and the Louisbourg Institute. He was instrumental in the creation of the Atlantic Coal Institute. However, it was as Director of the Bras d’Or Institute, from 1975 until his retirement in 1993, that he forged his research focus. He undertook projects related to Cape Breton Island’s science and social issues; early emphases being aquaculture, coal research, and affordable housing. In recognition of these contributions, he served on the Science Council of Canada.

Dr. Arseneau believed the University's success rested with its relevance to community; that “the University is central to the catalyzing of thought and action in Cape Breton.” Ergo, research in service of Cape Breton was paramount in his work and guided his involvement in community. Don had big dreams for the Island – such as envisioning Cape Breton as the home of the International Space Foundation or the 1987 Jeux Canada Games.

A busy work life was complimented by an even busier home life. The family home in Sydney, and cottage in Northside East Bay, were filled with the bustle and activity of ten children. Despite these commitments, Don was active in community and parish life. A member for the former St. Anthony Daniel Parish, he was a lector and folk choir member, served on Parish Council, the Parish Fundraising Committee, and various Diocesan Committees. Don served on the Board of the R.C. MacGillivrary Guest Home, regularly participated in Ports Day, involved in the local Science Fair and regular judge, served on the Cape Breton Regional School Board, and was on the committee to establish Shipyard Elementary.

In 1966, Don was a founding member of the Old Sydney Society and served multiple terms as president, vice-president, and secretary. He was active in the preservation of St. Patrick’s Church, Cossit House, Jost House, and the formation of the Centre for Heritage and Science in the Lyceum. For this leadership in the heritage community, he was awarded a Centennial Medal in 1967 and the Federation of NS Heritage’s Life Time Achievement Award in 1999.

Don is survived by his children; Anthony “Tony” (Linda) Rockland ON, John (Jody Aylard) North Saanich BC, Donald J. Vancouver BC, Thérèse (Donald Elder) Christchurch NZ, André (Donna) Sydney NS, Mary (Darcy Terrell) Ottawa ON, Catherine (Mitchell McNutt) Sydney NS, Peter Ottawa ON, Marc (Maureen) Sarnia ON, Patricia (Francis Syms) Toronto ON. Don will be deeply missed by his 25 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Don is predeceased by his wife Grace and siblings Edith Watkins, Catherine Day, LeRoy Arseneau, Shirley McNaughton, and Bernice Douthwright.

A sincere thank you to the many caring hands and facilities during Don’s final years including the Richard Hines Manor, Parkland Cape Breton, and Harbourstone’s MacDougall Court and Irish Cove.

Visitation will take place at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel on Wednesday, December 10th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Mass of Christian burial will take place at St Marguerite Bourgeoys Church, Sydney, Thursday, December 11th at 2pm.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Old Sydney Society (oldsydneysociety.org) or the Heart and Stroke Foundation (heartandstroke.ca). Online condolences to www.twcurry.com