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Joseph Aja Obituary
He was born on March 12, 1920, in Montpelier, Vermont, to Jose and Maria Aja. The family later moved to Barre, where he spent most of his childhood. He graduated from Spaulding High School in 1938. After high school, he attended night school, studying monumental drafting and design while working as a draftsman for several granite manufacturers. Joseph joined the U.S. Army in 1942. He served in World War II as a tech sergeant with the OSS and the 15th Air Force in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. He was wounded twice while in Greece. In the 1990s, he wrote a book, "Call Me Lucky," about his exploits in the war. After his discharge from the Army he attended the Institute of Art, Boston, graduating in 1948.
He married Lorraine Pilini on March 11, 1950. In 1951, they moved to South Barre, where they lived for over 60 years.
Joseph worked for many years as a draftsman and etcher for Beck & Beck Granite Co. He also worked for several years as an art, drafting and driver's education teacher at Williamstown High School. Joseph was a well-known oil painter in the central Vermont area. His paintings were displayed in many shows throughout New England, winning numerous awards. He enjoyed gardening, reading and traveling with Lorraine. They spent many winters in Florida and South Carolina.
He is survived by his son, Douglas Aja, and Janis Mattson, of East Montpelier; daughter, Joan Aja, of South Barre; and brother-in law, Dominic Montagna, of California. He was predeceased by his wife, Lorraine, who died in 2013; and brothers Raymond and Manuel and sisters Trinis and Theresa Goyette.
He will be buried at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center. Burial and a remembrance gathering will be held at the family's discretion.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution in his honor can be made to your charity of choice.
Condolences may be sent to P.O. Box 26, South Barre, VT 05670.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Aja
Debbie Lafaille
August 23, 2014
Doug,
On behalf of the Class of 1974 I extend deepest sympathy to you and your family over the loss of your dad. May your memories help ease your sorrow.
August 22, 2014
Joan, So sorry to hear of your Dads passing, Thinking of you, Perry Wilson,
August 19, 2014
I send my condolences to Mr. Aja's family. May God comfort you now and in the days to come. -Matthew 5:4
Romero Aja
August 19, 2014
So sorry for your loss - my thoughts and prayers go out to all your family and friends at this difficult time. Your Dad was such a wonderful man. I still have a picture he did for me when I was in high school. Rest in Peace Joe.
Rome Aja
Sage Lake, Michigan
August 18, 2014
Joan -
So sorry to hear about your Dad. You took great care of him. I'll be thinking of you ~~~ Barbara
Mike Fernandez
August 17, 2014
Doug,
Sorry to hear about your dad. I hope you are doing ok. Our thoughts are with you and family.
Mike Julie Fernandez
Gayle & Gerry Cormier
August 17, 2014
Doug & Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rick Grover
August 16, 2014
Rest in Peace Mr. A
August 16, 2014
Doug and Joan, what a great father you both have had all these years. He loved you so very much and was so proud of you. As you both know, my grandmother and his aunt, Irene Aja, was very close to her favorite nephew, Pepe. He loved her Spanish cooking, and many, many days he would stop by her home on Elm Street for arroz con pollo, soap de arroz, garbanzos, cream puffs, churros, and lemon pie. He was so talented, hard working, and devoted to the Universalist Church for many years. He will never be forgotten by me, and my sympathy goes out to both of you. Many great memories of Pepe will help you for many years.
Irene Aja Stewart
Montpelier
Patti (Pacetti) Anderson
August 16, 2014
So sorry to hear of the passing of a great man! I so enjoyed him when I was in high school and he was my art teacher. Always had a smile on his face. His wife was a doll, too. He lived a good, long life and will be missed and remembered by many whose lives he touched. RIP Mr. Aja.
SHIRLEY BENNETT
August 16, 2014
Doug, my condolences for your lost. I didn't know your folks but my sister Lori spoke highly of your folks.
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