AUBURN — Joseph Pragana, 98, of Maine, and formerly of New Bedford and Fairhaven, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 30, with his son and daughter-in-law at his side at Odd Fellows and Rebekahs Home of Maine.

He was the husband of the late Mary Julia (Martin) Pragana and son of the late Joaquim and Beatrice (Cereja) Pragana. He was born and lived most of his life in New Bedford and also lived in Fairhaven, prior to relocating to Maine to live with his son eight years ago.

Mr. Pragana was formerly employed in maintenance department for the city of New Bedford School Department, until his retirement. He also worked for the New Bedford Auxiliary Police Department for many years and was also employed by Boulevard Service Station for many years as Stanley Stykowski’s right-hand man.

He was a “Lucky Man” with many stories to tell, most of them both amusing and true. Joe enjoyed making crafts and even more so giving them away to the many special people who crossed his path.

Joe went to live at Odd Fellows Home seven months ago. Both he and his family were very grateful for the love and care he received from staff during his time there.

Survivors include his son, Daniel J. Pragana and his wife, Patricia, of Monmouth; six grandchildren, Allison Pelloquin of Florida, Traci Cregan and her husband, Dennis, of New Bedford, Tammy Lawrence and her husband, Kevin, of Dartmouth, Amy Beth Pragana of New Bedford, Deana Hawes and her husband, Josh, of Washington, and Daniel J. Pragana II of Maine; two stepgrandchildren, Amy Lyons and her husband, Scott and Corey Dill, both of Maine; considered grandpa by Wendi Shaw and husband, Earle, also of Maine; many great and great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Alice Omey of Arizona; a brother, Octavio “Tacky” Pragana and his companion, Janice, of Marion; a niece; and a nephew.

He was the father-in-law of the late Lorraine E. (Ahlers) Pragana and brother of the late Emily Cardoza and Mary Souza.