Holland: Edward P. Artruc, 89, passed away at UMASS Memorial Medical Center on Friday, August 4th with his wife Lois and daughter Susan by his side.

He leaves his beloved wife, Lois H. (Howlett) Artruc; his two daughters, Scarlet B. Artruc and her husband Dr. Daniel Doody of Lynnfield, MA and Susan Marcucci and her husband John of Holland; his three sons, Rock E. Artruc and his fiancé Candace Watts of Holland, John S. Artruc and his partner Linda Walsh of Union, CT, and Paul L. Artruc and his wife Linda of Livonia, NY; his 12 grandchildren, Nathan Marcucci and his wife Alyssa, Stephen Marcucci and his wife Jessica, Sara Phaneuf and her husband Cliff, Adina Laprade and her husband Thomas, Erin Carson and her husband David, Colin Doody and his wife Maggie, Shaylyn Doody and her partner David Klaus, Evan Doody and his partner Ashley Glover, Jennifer Pallanck and her husband Adam, Emily Artruc and her husband Mathew Walls, Timothy Artruc, Tessa Artruc and her partner Meghan King; 21 great grandchildren; and his sister Evelyn Martin of Stafford, CT.  He was predeceased by his 5 siblings.  Edward was born in Wales, the son of the late Albert A. and Blanche (Gaudette) Artruc.

He was raised in Wales and graduated from Cole Trade High School in Southbridge.  He put his learned skills to use immediately, working at Howlett Lumber. He then started his own contracting business building many homes in Holland, including the first home for he and his family.  He was an extremely hard-working man, continuing his business while helping to raise his five children and maintaining the farm on Marcy Place. However, he always took time to enjoy life.  He spent time with his family and friends, riding motorcycles and snowmobiles, bowling, water-skiing, camping and helping with any projects where his abilities could be helpful.  He built the iconic windmill in the center of Holland in 1983.  He never really retired, instead helping his family build or update their own homes, many on the family property.  He had amazing talent with woodworking and shared the fruits of his labor with his family, inspiring many to continue the tradition.  He and his wife spent winters in Barefoot Bay, FL with many of their siblings and friends.  He enjoyed playing cards and cribbage especially at the Holland Community Center or with anyone willing to take him on (especially his grandchildren!).  While his health declined in his last few years, the family gives special thanks to the loving care of his daughter Susan, who sacrificed so much to allow him to enjoy his remaining time with family.

Calling hours for Edward will be Monday, August 14th from 4:00 to 6:00PM in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holland Community Center.