Arthur F. Creighton

Col. Arthur F. Creighton, Jr., 83, of Lebanon, passed away Monday, December 30th at the NH Veterans Home in Tilton, following a period of declining health.

Arthur was born in White River Junction, VT January 18, 1930, the only child of Arthur F. Creighton, Sr. and Shirley (Densmore) Creighton. He was raised in Lebanon, NH and attended Lebanon High School. Arthur was a graduate of UNH, enlisting in the United States Air Force shortly after earning his degree. During his 30 years of service in the military, Arthur moved up the ranks from Second Lieutenant to "full bird" Colonel, earned a Master's Degree , served a tour in Vietnam, worked as an education and training staff officer with the Deputy Inspector General, and was the Group Commander of the Air Force Orientation Group. Prior to his retirement in 1982, Arthur was awarded many medals, awards and citations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Bronze Star.

During his life, Arthur was always active in the communities in which he lived, serving on everything from school boards to town councils. Later in life Arthur became very active with Kiwanis International, serving in numerous capacities at the local, state, and regional levels. Arthur was an avid runner, enjoying daily runs, the local 5K, or the occasional marathon. He shared his joy of traveling with his family, and was always eager to educate others on the history of the areas he had lived or visited. Whether traveling or relaxing, cheering for his favorite sports teams or enjoying a dinner out, Arthur always enjoyed it most when in the company of his beloved family and friends.

Arthur is survived by his wife of 41 years, Miriam J. Creighton; son, CMSgt Douglas Creighton and his wife, Karla; daughter, Susan Hewitt and her husband, Arnold; daughter, Cynthia Shank and her husband, James; daughter, Mariana Creighton and her fiancée, Jeffrey O'Connor; aunt, Ruth Creighton Guild and her husband Alden; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

The family will receive visitors Wednesday, January 8th noon-1:00pm at Phaneuf Funeral Home, 172 King Street in Boscawen. A funeral service will take place at 1:00 in the funeral home chapel, followed immediately by burial with military honors at the New Hampshire State Veteran Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway in Boscawen. Donations in Arthur's memory may be made to the Upper Valley Kiwanis Club, PO Box 906, Lebanon, NH 03766.