Christopher Richard Artegian Sr.

Rick is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Gail (Leal) Artegian; his daughter Melissa (Artegian) Piette and son-in-law, Kevin Piette of Blackstone, MA; daughter Karen Artegian of Foster, RI; son Christopher Artegian Jr. of Foster, RI. He was adored by his ten grandchildren Isabella, Gabriella, Emma, Alexandra, Robert, Destiny, Christopher, Khloe, Trenton, and Wyatt; and two great-grandchildren Joseph and Ensley; his mother, Shirley (Sparfven) Kaiser; his brothers Rodney Artegian, Michael Artegian and Wayne Artegian and his sisters Shirley (Artegian) Beville, Michele (Artegian) Walsh, and Elvesta Kaiser.

Born on June 2, 1948, in Providence, RI, Rick enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 20. He bravely fought in the Vietnam War and was a recipient of two Purple Hearts, a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, and a Vietnam Campaign medal. After receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1970, Rick dedicated the rest of his life to being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

Rick worked hard as a millwright for Microfibres, Inc. in Pawtucket, RI to support his family but he made sure to live his life to the fullest. To stay connected with the Armed Forces, Rick became a member of the American Legion, where he was able to create new friendships and share memories from his time in the Army. Rick was an avid outdoorsman; whether it was hunting or fishing, he loved being outside. He enjoyed spending time at his cabin in Maine and at his house in Florida, keeping himself busy with various handyman projects. One of his favorite projects being an 8-sided picnic table so that his eight grandchildren at the time could all have their own spot at the table.

Rick’s greatest passion in life was being a father and grandfather; his children and grandchildren meant the world to him. Rick valued nothing more than spending time with his family. Despite having long work hours, he always made the effort to be on the sidelines to cheer on his children at sporting events. And in his retirement years, he loved taking his grandchildren on adventures when they visited him in Florida.

Visitation will be held Tuesday from 9:30 am followed by a service at 11:00 am in the Pontarelli- Marino Home 971 Branch Ave. Providence. Burial with Military Honors will follow in the RI Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, 301 South County Trail, Exeter, RI. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Harmony Hospice, 931 Jefferson Blvd. Suite 3004, Warwick, RI 02886.