Colonel Joseph L. Watras, U.S. Army Reserves, retired, died on Monday October 9, 2006 at the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Needham. He ws 91 years old. Born in Lebanon CT, Joseph was a graduate of Burdette College in Boston Class of 1938. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in in 1941. He was honorably discharged in 1946, having attained the rank of Major. Major Watras received a Bronze Star, the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, the World War II Victory Medal and the American Service Medal. After being discharged, Joseph joined the U.S. Army Reserves. He served his country proudly in the reserves for 30 years, retiring in 1975, having achieved the rank of Colonel. Mr. Watras worked for Burroughs Corp which became Unisys Corp as Sales manager for 40 years. The husband of the late Barbara J. (Cratty)he is survived by his four sons, Joseph L. JR. of Dayton, OH, Carl J. of Presque Isle, WI, James M. of Farmington, CT and Steven T. Watras of Needham. The brother of Frances L. Watras of Hartford CT, Ernest Watras of Meriden CT and Henry Watras of Eastham he is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral from the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave Needham on Monday, October 16 at 9:00 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in Saint Joseph Church at 10:00 AM. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours on Sunday from 2-5 PM. Interment at the MA National Cemetery in Bourne on Monday at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers donations in Joseph’s name may be made to the American Red Cross, 180 Rustcraft Rd, Dedham MA 02026.