Arthur Edward Senecal

Arthur E. Senecal, 89, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025. Born on September 21, 1936, in Boston, Massachusetts, Art lived a long, full life marked by dedication, generosity, quiet humor, and deep love for his family.

He graduated from Norwood High School and went on to attend Boston University and the College of Industrial Technology before enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1955. What began as a young man’s decision to serve his country became a lifelong calling. Art spent more than 26 years in the Air Force, serving at bases across the United States and overseas, including tours in Vietnam, Spain, and South Korea. His career took him from Pease and Loring Air Force Bases in the Northeast to Headquarters Eighth Air Force at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, where he would spend some of his most influential years.

Over the course of his military service, Art worked in nearly every aspect of law enforcement and security, earning the respect of those who served alongside him. Known for his calm leadership, sharp memory, and steady judgment, he was trusted with increasing responsibility throughout his career. Promoted to Chief Master Sergeant in 1977, Art became Operations Manager for all Eighth Air Force security police units, where he helped guide, inspect, and mentor units across the command. He was especially proud of the people he worked with and never lost sight of the importance of teamwork and professionalism.

His service was recognized with numerous awards, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and multiple unit and campaign honors. While Art appreciated the recognition, he was far more proud of the work itself and the people he served alongside.

After retiring from active duty, Art continued his commitment to service as a civilian security professional beginning in 1982. His work took him to Patrick Air Force Base in Florida and later to Kelly and Lackland Air Force Bases in Texas. Even out of uniform, he remained deeply engaged, respected for his expertise, and relied upon for his sound judgment and problem- solving skills. Over a combined 47 years of military and civil service, Art built a reputation as someone you could always count on.

Outside of work, Art knew how to enjoy life. In his younger years, he loved bowling, playing the organ, collecting coins, and woodworking with cypress. He also had a fondness for Chinese buffets and was always happy to sit down for a good meal. In later years, his greatest joy came from time spent with family. He loved playing cards—especially Gin Rummy—cheering on the San Antonio Spurs, frequenting garage sales, and volunteering at the Lackland Thrift Store. He also looked forward to monthly luncheons with fellow military friends and spent many happy hours working at his coin shop with close friends.

Art was preceded in death by his father, Emile Senecal; his mother, Rita Fitzgerald, and his son, Karl Senecal. He is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Santos Harbison; his sons, Kevin Senecal and Kenneth Senecal (Nicole); his stepchildren, Patricia Estoril (Milo), Liana Rodriguez (Ruben), and Michael Harbison (Alexis); fifteen grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and happiness.

Affectionately known as “Art,” he will be remembered as a natural leader, a trusted mentor, a devoted husband and father, and a man whose quiet strength left a lasting impression. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

The family of Mr. Arthur Edward Senecal would like to thank the wonderful staff at Grand Brook Memory Care.

A visitation will take place from 5:00-6:00 p.m., on January 7, 2026, at Porter Loring Mortuary West. A rosary will follow beginning at 6:00 p.m.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m., on January 8, 2026, at Resurrection of the Lord Catholic Church.

The committal service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.