Joseph S. Pulera, age 82, of Franklin, MA, passed away peacefully at home on May 8, 2025, after a long illness, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on April 21, 1943, in Massachusetts, Joe was the beloved son of the late Joseph Pulera and Mary (Carini) Pulera. He grew up in Hyde Park and later made his home in Quincy, MA, where he lived for many years before settling in Franklin in 2009 to be closer to family.
Joe dedicated his professional life to public service, working as an accountant for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. His work reflected his quiet dedication and integrity, qualities that also defined his personal life.
He was the devoted husband of Kathryn A. (Ryan) Pulera, with whom he shared forty-eight loving years. Joe was a proud and supportive father to his daughters, Janean (Pulera) Ruschioni and her partner Peter Ruggiero, and Melissa (Pulera) Fahey and her husband Christopher Fahey. His greatest joy came from being a papa to Mason and Maxwell Ruschioni, and Evelyn and Charleigh Fahey, who brought light and laughter to his life.
Joe is also survived by his sister, Catherine (Pulera) Piscatelli and her husband Joseph Piscatelli of North Kingstown, RI. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Anna Pulera of Foxboro and late brother Frank Pulera. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Joe enjoyed spending time with his family and friends at his beloved “Blue House” in Belmont, NH where he spent summers fishing, boating, and making memories with his family.
Joe was an active member of the Knights of Columbus in Quincy, MA. He was a lover of history, physical fitness, gardening, red wine and politics. He will be remembered for his silly sayings, his generosity, and his dance moves.
Calling hours are Thursday, May 15th at the Charles F. Oteri and Son Funeral Home, 33 Cottage Street, Franklin, MA from 4 P.M. to 7 PM.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Friday, May 16th at St. Mary's Church, Franklin MA at 10AM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Joe’s memory to the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Program at the Hockomock Area YMCA 300 Elmwood St, North Attleboro MA 02760 or The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation at 383 Main Avenue, 7th Floor Norwalk, CT 06851.
Guestbook www.franklinfuneral.com