Erik “Rick” Hunt Luce, 69, of Hopedale, died Tuesday September 11th at the Milford Regional Medical Center, following a long, courageous, and hard-fought battle with colon cancer.
Born on October 4, 1948 in Milford, MA. Rick was the son of the late Everett A. and Mary A. (Volmer) Luce, and was a proud graduate of Hopedale High School, Class of 1966. He earned his Bachelors Degree in Accounting at Babson College, within three years.
His lifelong accounting career began at State Mutual in Worcester in 1969, he went on to work at Catella and Young, Braemoor, was Senior Vice President at the Home National Bank in Milford. Rick founded and owned his own company-Blackstone Financial Corporation, W.G.B., and worked independently for the last 20 years, most recently with The Payroll Company in Milford, MA. Despite his busy tax business, Rick was very active in the community, holding roles of Hopedale Town Auditor and Accountant and also Millville Town Treasurer, in the 1970’s. Never shying away from a political debate, he passionately supported many town candidates and issues over the years.
Rick joined the Hopedale Country Club at 21 years old and found what would become his lifelong passion. For over 40 years, he devoted himself to the Country Club’s success, ensuring the club would remain a standout course and club, for generations to come. He spent over 30 years as Club treasurer and also held the role of club president. An avid Golf, Celtics, Red Sox and Patriots fan, Rick was equally as enthusiastic in supporting Hopedale Town sports. He served as little league coach in the 1970’s and was always scouting the next “Hopedale sports star”.
Rick loved taking his grandson for rides around town in his convertible, trips to his old stomping grounds always came with a cherished town history lesson. He was an avid music lover, loved going to concerts, and occasionally moonlighted in friend’s bands on either the drums or guitar. Rick was always willing and first in line, to extend a hand to help friends and family through difficult times. He was a proud, lifelong, Hopedale resident, and will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his beloved daughter; Katie A. Dupre and her husband Ryan of Hopedale, and his cherished grandson Trevor R. Dupre, and adored his granddaughter Kylie J. Dupre of Hopedale. Rick also leaves many lifelong friends and his extended Luce family. Rick was predeceased by his brother, Brian S. Luce in 2002.
His funeral will be held Thursday, September 20, 2018 at 9am from the Consigli-Ruggerio Funeral Home, 46 Water Street, Milford, followed by a Mass of Christian burial, at 10am, at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 187 Hopedale Street, Hopedale, MA. Burial will follow in the Hopedale Village Cemetery.
Calling hours will be held Wednesday, September 19, 2018, from 5-8pm