Hudson – Robert A. Braga, 80, died at home Sunday April 10, 2011, with his family, after a period of declining health. He was the son of the late Joseph J. and Nancy (Franklin) Braga.
He leaves his loving wife of 55 years, Aida (Nordelo) Braga; his daughter, Robin Zagwyn of Hudson and her husband, Robert; his grandson, Kevin Sullivan; his granddaughters, Erynn and Erica; and two great-granddaughters, Sophia and Ella. He was predeceased by his loving daughter, Deborah, who died in 1977. He was the brother of Joseph J. Braga and his wife, Rose Marie, of Florida and was the brother-in-law of Elaine Braga of Hudson, the widow of his brother Richard, who died in 2009. He also leaves his sister-in-law, Leona Silva of Hudson; his brothersin law, Pete Nordelo of California and Joseph Nordelo of Milford; and many nieces and nephews.
Born in Hudson, he was a lifelong resident of the community. He attended Hudson schools and served in the United States Army as a Green Beret/Paratrooper.
After his tour in the military, Mr. Braga worked in the shoe industry for his uncle at Braga Shoe Company on Broad Street in Hudson. He then began employment with the town of Hudson Department of Public Works, where he worked as a heavy equipment operator. He was later promoted to the position of field supervisor, overseeing all major projects undertaken by the town DPW until his retirement in 1992.
Mr. Braga was skilled in carpentry and electrical work and was always ready and willing to help his family and friends with any project that they were undertaking. He had a love for carving which he found relaxing and enjoyable. He was particularly partial to carving birds and other wildlife figures that he proudly displayed in his living room. Of most importance, though, was his family. He was most happy when he was sharing time with his wife, his daughter and sonin law, and his grandchildren. The most recent focus of his love and attention was his two great-grandchildren, Sophia and Ella, who he insisted on visiting with even when he was not feeling well. When he did leave the family home, he loved going out for dinner and spending time with his wife in southern Maine, particularly in Wells Beach.
A funeral Mass was celebrated April 14 from Saint Michael's Church of Hudson, with burial at Forestvale Cemetery. The Tighe-Hamilton Funeral Home of Hudson assisted with arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Massachusetts Affiliate, Inc., 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. For online condolences, visit www.tighehamilton.com.
