DRACUT - Maurice H. Riendeau, 74, a long time Dracut resident, died unexpectedly Thursday evening April 23, 2009 in Saints Medical Center, Lowell.
Born in Dracut on May 31, 1934, he was a son of the late Telesphore and Simonne (Legreve) Riendeau. He received his education in the Dracut school system and joined the army as a young man.
An honorably discharged and retired veteran of the United States Army, he proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict as a member of the US Army Infantry and the Vietnam War as a member of the US Army Special Forces retiring with the rank of Sergeant first class after twenty one years of service.
Following his military career Mr. Riendeau had been employed for fifteen years by General Electric in Lynn, Massachusetts in their helicopter engine assembly division.
He was a member of the VFW Walker Roger Post 662 in Lowell and served for many years as a member of the Funeral Honor Guard. He was an enthusiastic spokesperson for the armed services and would periodically be invited to schools, in full uniform, to talk about his experiences as a soldier.
Well known for his story telling and strong opinions, Maurice would often stop complete strangers to talk, and after a few minutes they would be laughing along with him.
He was an avid animal lover and would always ask for news about people's pets, including his children's cats Maxwell and Crystal. He also enjoyed traveling, current events and geography.
Surviving him are his daughter Suzahne M. Riendeau of Somerville; his son Michael H. Riendeau of Andover; one brother and sister-in-law Richard and Maureen Riendeau of Pelham, NH; his former wife Andrea (Stone) Clark of Homosassa, FL; and several nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Delores Grzesik.
Friends may call at DRACUT FUNERAL HOME 2159 Lakeview Avenue, DRACUT, on Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM. His Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday at 11 AM in the funeral home. Following this he will be cremated and there will be an interment in Oakland Cemetery (date to be announced). Those who wish may make memorial contributions in his name to the Merrimack Valley Humane Society 951 Broadway St. Lowell, MA 01854.