Edward N. LaCoille, Jr.
Did you know Edward? Please share your stories and photos, and help spread the word about this page!
Edward N. LaCoille, Jr., 64, of Lenox, MA, passed away on Sunday, January 3, 2021 due to complications from COVID-19. Born in Putnam, CT on December 4, 1956, he was the son of Edward N. LaCoille, Sr. and Rachel Morin LaCoille. He graduated from Smith Academy in Hatfield, MA in 1974. He went on to graduate from Holyoke Community College with a degree in Hotel and Food Service Management, leading to a career as a chef. Among other places, he was a chef at Hampshire College as well as The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp; founded by Paul Newman for children with serious illness.
Ed was a self-taught oil painter, beginning at the age of ten. He created beautiful pieces of art which have been displayed in numerous galleries, exhibits and shops throughout New England and adorn the homes of many near and far. His love for music, art and family led to numerous trips with his wife, the former Linda Shirtcliff, whom he married on June 9, 1996. He loved to explore new places, attend a concert and visit family in other states.
Ed resided in South Deerfield, MA until suffering a debilitating stroke in 2014 where he then moved to Lenox, MA. His stroke resulted in paralysis of his dominant side and loss of speech. After beating all odds, he persevered and rehabilitated back to becoming quite independent. Within less than a year, he picked up the paint brush again and taught himself to paint with his opposite hand creating pieces that were just as beautiful and detailed as they were before the stroke. Those who hear of his story are awestruck and encouraged by his tenacity.
Ed is survived by his daughter, Valerie Guinther and son-in-law, Cory of Fort Mill, SC; his son, Erin LaCoille (Cindy) of Troutman, NC; his sister, Cheryl Bean and brother-in-law, Brian of Becket, MA; 4 grandchildren, Cameron and Millie Guinther and Connor and Morgan LaCoille; his nephews; Jason Bean (Amanda) and Kyle Bean (Carlye); his niece, Dani Shirtcliff; 3 stepchildren, Karen Mariani (Mark) and their 2 children; Todd Uzdavinis (Rebecca) and their 4 children; Jason Uzdavinis (Heather) and their 2 children; and his sister-in-law, Christine Shirtcliff (Fran Ferry).
Ed was predeceased by his wife, Linda (2011), his mother, Rachel (2009) and his father, Edward, Sr. (2019).
The family would like to deeply thank everyone at Kimball Farms Nursing Care Center for the years of friendship, dedication, love, and support shown to Ed. So many of you touched his life.
Due to Covid restrictions, a celebration of Ed's life will be held in Montague, MA at a later date. Expressions of sympathy and remembrance may be made with a donation to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. Arrangements were made under the direction of Walker Funeral Home, 14 High Street, Greenfield.