Joseph Paul Edward Michaud

LOWELL - Joe Paul Michaud, 93, completed his earthly journey on Sunday, July 16th. He was born in Lowell on Sep 10,1923 to Joseph and Diana (Roux) Michaud.
After graduating from Keith Academy he served in the US Army during WWII. He joined the 45th Division in North Africa, and was soon a staff sergeant combat infantryman in Europe where he sustained serious injuries during battles at Anzio Beach, Italy, and again soon after D-Day, in the South of France. He received the Purple Heart with one oak leaf cluster, The Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantry Badge along with numerous campaign ribbons.
In 1946 while on a week-end pass from the Army hospital, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth Reedy, from North Chelmsford. She supported him throughout his life long trek and together they raised three children.
As a resident of Lowell his entire life, Paul worked at the Watertown Arsenal before leaving to begin a twenty seven year career as a production analyst at Raytheon in Lowell, retiring in 1983.
The family was the most important aspect of his life, and most recently he enjoyed watching his grandchildren grow into adults.
He enjoyed dancing and going out weekend evenings. Upon retirement, he took up running, and won first place for his age division in his first 10k race. He was an impulsive new car buyer and took pride in the maintaining of his vehicles, home and lawn.
He was a communicant of St. Rita's Church, and an active member of The American Legion, The Disabled American Veterans, and Paralyzed Veterans of America.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Betty (Reedy) Michaud, his sons, Colonel (USAF, RET) Richard Michaud of Fort Walton Beach FL, Norman Michaud and his wife Barbara (Hovsepian) of Huntington Beach, CA, daughter in law Jean (Perry) Michaud of Athol, MA, his brother, Raymond Michaud of Lowell.
He was pre deceased by his youngest son, David Michaud, brothers Richard Michaud, Roland Michaud, and sister Marguerite Dandenault.
He leaves many grandchildren, several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the staff at Edith Nourse Rogers Veterans Facility in Bedford for their caring support. A special thanks to his niece and her husband, Elaine and Al Heighington, along with many family, neighbors and home care givers for their continual support. He often called them "my angels".