Lillian B. Tarutis

TARUTIS, Lillian B. of Norwood passed away peacefully May 18, 2021 at the age of 94. She was predeceased by her late husband Edward J. Tarutis. The couple resided on Bornwood Drive for over 50 years. Lillian lived comfortably at the Ellis Nursing Home for the last four years.
Born and raised in Worcester, Lillian graduated from high school there and also attended Salter Secretarial School, moving to Norwood when she married. Lillian worked as a secretary, bookkeeper, office manager, accounting supervisor, and executive secretary in a variety of industries.
Art was important to Lillian. Originally working in ceramics, Lillian seriously took up painting in her 40s. She eventually became an accomplished amateur artist, working in watercolor, oil, charcoal, acrylic and pastel. She attended art classes on Cape Cod and in Maine and studied with several noted local artists, even hosting a weekly studio art class in her basement. Her work won numerous awards in local juried art shows and she often sold her paintings. Lillian was thrilled to have taught her two grandsons the basics of painting and drawing.
A member of the Norwood Art Association for many years, Lillian served several terms as an officer. Years ago, she was active in the women's club of the former St. George's RC Church in South Norwood. After retiring, Lillian volunteered at the Norwood Hospital and for many WGBH television fundraisers.
Lillian and Edward owned several generations of golden retrievers and could often be seen driving around town with Boris and Max leaning out the windows. They enjoyed entertaining family and friends at their summer cottages on Cape Cod or Lake Winnipesaukee.
Diagnosed with diabetes 35 years ago, Lillian successfully managed her condition for the rest of her life. She even survived a case of Covid-19 in 2020.
Lillian is survived by her son, Robert, and his wife, Elaine; her grandsons, Jonathan and Ethan; and a niece, Joan Amelotte.
All services will be private. Arrangements by the Kraw-Kornack Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lillian's name to Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue at www.ygrr.org . This nonprofit focuses on rescues and adoptions in New England but has rescued goldens from as far away as China and Turkey.