Lajoie, Jr., Edward Richard

Edward Richard Lajoie Jr., 66, died April 2, 2024 after a 10 year struggle with Frontotemporal Dementia. He leaves his wife of 22 years, Susan Lajoie and his two beloved children, Michael Lajoie and Ned Lajoie, both of Enfield. He also leaves his brother, David Lajoie of Ellington and his sister Sueann Lennon of Enfield and his nephews Josh Lajoie, Dylan Lennon, Nathan Lajoie and Tyler Lajoie. Ed was predeceased by his mother, Virginia Lajoie (nee Marrone), his father, Edward Lajoie Sr. and his brother, Michael Lajoie.

Ed was born in Springfield, grew up in Enfield and lived in Suffield thereafter. Ed attended Suffield Academy, University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL and American International College in Springfield. He worked as an IT Professional at Aetna and The Hartford until his retirement in 2014.

Ed was always his happiest when he was with his sons. He truly treasured their moments together, be it a holiday, a sporting event but especially their weekly dinners at Buffalo Wild Wings and Hukelau. He was deeply proud of the men they have grown into.

Ed was an avid sports fan but held a particular passion for golf. He formed countless fond memories with family and friends through similarly countless rounds on courses throughout New England. Ed was also a longtime fan of UCONN Men and Women's basketball and held season tickets for many years. He never missed a televised away game and “coached” the players from his chair, strategically-placed directly in front of the television.

Ed shared his love of sports with the community by coaching for Michael's and Ned's sports teams throughout their childhood. He touched many lives through his coaching which was marked by an emphasis on teamwork, fun and the insistence that every player be allowed to play in every game. Ed always made time to speak with his former players who would update “Coach Lajoie” on their lives and he enjoyed seeing “the kids” grow.

Ed was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia in 2014 and there are no words to express the anguish his family endured as that disease took his kind personality and knowing laugh from our lives long before claiming his life. Amidst that sorrow our family extends our deepest gratitude to Dr. Murray Grossman of the University of Pennsylvania's Frontotemporal Degeneration Center for his exceptionally empathetic care. We also thank Audrey and Joan particularly, as well as his many other caretakers who safeguarded Ed's dignity and comfort throughout many difficult years. Their expertise was priceless, and their kindness a precious light in dark times.

Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, we request donations be made in Ed's name to help support the valuable work of the University of Pennsylvania Frontotemporal Degeneration Center, in the hope that others need not suffer FTD as he did. Donations can be accepted

Online at Penn Frontotemporal Degeneration Center Gift Fund; on the Penn FTD Center Penn Giving Page; or by check.