Joseph Alfred (Pepe) Aja, 94, longtime resident of South Barre, VT passed away at St Johnsbury Health & Rehab on Aug. 10. He was born on March 12, 1920 in Montpelier, VT, to Jose and Maria Aja. The family later move 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 US Army in 1942. He served in WWII as a Tech Sargent 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 & etcher for Beck & Beck Granite Company. He also worked for several years as an art, drafting and drivers-ed 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 PO Box 26 South Barre, VT 05670.