Sturbridge: Edward "Clutch" J. Cloutier, 76, of Wallace Rd., passed away on Sunday, April 5 ^th , in the Harrington Memorial Hospital, Southbridge, after a sudden illness.

He leaves his loving wife of 55 years, Nancy J. (Jesky) Cloutier; his two sons, Mark Cloutier and his wife Zandra of Sturbridge and Michael Cloutier of Southbridge; his two daughters, Debra Julian and her husband Richard of Warren and Tammy Cloutier of Southbridge; his brother, Norman Cloutier of Sturbridge; and his three grandchildren, Joshua Mark Cloutier and his wife Katrina, Rebecca Lee Cloutier and Kylee Rose Julian.  He was predeceased by his two brothers, Armand "Roger" Cloutier and Roland Cloutier and his sister, Lorraine Martel.  He was born in Sturbridge the son of Hormidas and Emma (Gendron) Cloutier.  Edward was a US Army Veteran, serving in the 82 ^nd Airborne Division.

Edward worked for CRC Line in Spencer for 20 years, retiring 14 years ago.  He was very proud of his Native American heritage with the Montagnais tribe.  He had a green thumb and was known for his huge gardens.  He had a knack for reviving old engines and equipment and was known throughout New England as an expert on hit & miss engines and Model A Fords. Edward loved spending time with his grandchildren and one of his greatest pastimes was watching nature on his farmland in Sturbridge.

A celebration of life for Edward on his farm will be held at a later date.  There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Shriner's Hospital for Children, 516 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01104.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.