WESTFIELD – David Earl Artz (February 13, 1964-June 5, 2025) passed away peacefully in a hospital in Illinois surrounded by family and friends on June 5, 2025, at the age of 61. David was born in Westfield, MA to the late Elizabeth (Tillery) and Rene Artz.
Dave grew up in Westfield. He had the heart of an adventurer, spending time between Florida, Massachusetts, and most recently, Illinois. Dave loved taking care of his plants and flowers, working on his truck and cars, building homemade go-carts for his kids when they were younger (which made all the neighborhood kids envious). He was a jack of all trades. Dave loved animals, whether it was wildlife or his pets, especially his dog J.D. There was never a time throughout his life that he did not have a dog. They were part of his family and went everywhere with him. Dave loved taking walks/hikes and being outside. He could find fun in anything. Dave was also a fantastic amateur photographer and often gave his work away as birthday and Christmas gifts. His library of pictures will be admired for years to come. He was a partner, brother, father, Grandfather, uncle, and great-uncle. He was loved by all, and his family will carry on his legacy, spreading his knowledge and love to the new generation.
Dave leaves behind the mother of his children, Lynn, his daughter Kayla Artz, his son Neeko Artz, his daughter Amy Artz, his sisters Glenda Halla, Margie Martin, and Debra Artz, all of Westfield, his grandsons Ezra Artz and Lincoln Greenwood, his nephews Nathan and Neal Halla of Westfield, his nieces Nicole Levesque and Jenny Horak Smearman of North Carolina, as well as many great nieces and nephews.
Dave was predeceased by his parents Elizabeth and Rene, as well as his beautiful niece, Casey Martin.
Dave was an organ donor. His donation will bring joy to many families in need.
Memorial service will be held on July 31st at Firtion-Adams from 5-7 p.m., 76 Broad Street in Westfield.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to David’s family through the GoFundMe page in his honor. www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-honor-david-artzs-memory/sms/o
