Edward J. Claprood, Sr., 85, of Worcester, died peacefully Thursday, December 8, 2011 in UMass Medical Center- University Campus.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Grace J. (Caputo) Claprood; two sons, Mark L. Claprood of West Boylston and Edward J. Claprood, Jr. of Bellingham; his uncle and aunt, Joseph and Barbra Ziak of Webster; two brother in-laws, Frank and Mary Caputo of West Boylston and Anthony and Connie Caputo of Spencer; three sister in-laws, Anna Piccioli of Natick, Marie Richardson of Franklin and Joseph and Lillian Palermo ; his beloved dog “Chip” and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his two sisters, Shirley and Joyce.

He was born in Webster, Ma on April 15, 1926 and was the son to the late Lloyd and Anna (Ziak) Claprood and has lived in Worcester for more than 50 years. He was a graduate of Webster High School. Mr. Claprood served his county in the United States Navy during World War II.

Edward worked for the shipping department for many years for Thom-McCan Shoes. He later worked for over 12 years in the maintenance department for North High School in Worcester.

Edward loved his family and friends and they loved him. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Edward had a wide range of interest from fishing to dancing and traveling to the Cape. He was an avid sports fan, especially for the Patriots and Red Sox. Mr.Claprood was an active member with the American Legion Main South No.341.

Edward’s funeral will be held Monday, December 12th from the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Planation Street, with a Mass at 11:00 a.m. in St. Peter’s Church, 931 Main Street, Worcester. Friends and family are invited to visit with the family from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home before departing for church.