Joseph A. Bratchell, 61, of Shelton, passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, October 30, 2011. Joseph was an avid history buff, and an expert on civil war history and the Wild West. Joe was at ease in any circle; he was a true conversationalist on any topic. He was a long-time rider of snowmobiles and motorcycles. He was a friend to the friendless, and a compassionate human that will be missed by all. Survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Dorothy A. Bratchell, children Louis Santoro and Sarah Jane (affectionately known as 'Rah Rah' by her Daddy). Other survivors include beloved brother and best friend Tommy Bratchell and sister-in-law Jackie Bratchell, sisters Tina Torraco (Pat Torraco), Sandralee Luciano (Charles Luciano), brothers Dennis Bratchell (Millie Bratchell) and Patrick Bratchell. Beloved nieces Samantha M. Bratchell, Tina Ramos, and Lisa Kelsey; nephew Michael Torraco and granddaughter Lacey Santoro; and his life-long friends Ray Corriea and Tony Fedock, and close friend George Haury. He was predeceased by his father Anthony Bratchell and mother Mary, and his brother Tony Bratchell. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday November 3rd at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Grace Church (Meet Directly at Church) 298 Second Hill Lane Stratford. Interment will follow in St. John's Cemetery Monroe. Friends may call on Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. in the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford. In lieu of flowers those desiring may make donations to the Spooner House Homeless Shelter located 30 Todd Rd., Shelton, CT. in memory of Joseph Bratchell