Joseph S. Field, 71 of Portland passed away peacefully on October 28, surrounded by family after a brief illness. Joe was a graduate of Portland High School class of 1974 and a lifelong Portland resident. For 48 years, Joe dedicated himself to his work at Pratt and Whitney and was looking forward to retirement in the upcoming year. Joe was predeceased by his parents, David and Theresa Field of Portland, brother Michael of Portland and sister Patricia Kruvka of Middletown. Joe is survived by his sons, Bryan and wife Michelle of East Hampton, Michael and wife Marli of Portland, brother David and wife Karen of Portland, sisters Cathy Field and Theresa Dipace both of Middletown and many nieces and nephews. He was a doting Papa Joe to eight grandchildren and two great grandsons. Joe adored his family and loved spending time with them. He enjoyed the simple pleasures like chatting on the porch, yardwork with Ryder and Gracie or spoiling his great grandsons, Axel and Reed. He was so proud of his family.

Joe was a generous, caring man with a huge heart, a quick wit and a mischievous sense of humor. He was at his best making people laugh even if it was controversial. Papa Joe, as he was referred to by many people (not only the grandkids) was extremely talented. He was a genuine helper and spent many nights in his garage fixing anything and everything. If you needed guidance, you knew to call him. He was an avid grocery shopper and a fantastic cook. He took great pride in selecting the perfect roast for the holidays. He loved to garden and was most proud of his tomatoes. He had a remarkable talent for making friends everywhere he went and will be missed by many. Joe was truly one of a kind and his loss will leave those of us who were lucky enough to have known him with a huge void in our hearts.

A memorial mass will be held November 10 at 10AM in St. Mary’s Church, Portland. Friends may call from 5-7 November 9 at Biega’s Funeral Home in Middletown. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Nathaniel B. Field Memorial Fund, 32 Old County Rd, East Haddam, CT 06438. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.