SAN DIEGO, CALIF. — Joseph W. Croteau Jr., 50, of San Diego, Calif., passed away on Nov. 2, 2011 at his home of a heart attack.

He was born March 8, 1961 to Isabelle and Joseph Croteau Sr. Joseph graduated from Oxford Hills High School and attended First Assembly of God Church in Lewiston.

He participated in community service for the homeless youth of San Diego and enjoyed teaching sign language to the deaf.

He also enjoyed singing, playing many instruments, watching the polar bears at the San Diego Zoo, and playing catch with his dog, Molly. Joseph was the owner and operator of Carmela’s Restaurant in Bethel, and also owned and operated a health care management service.

He was predeceased by his father, Joseph W. Croteau Sr.; and his sister, Caroline Knight of Casco, who passed away on the same day (see obituary).

Joseph is survived by his mother, Isabelle Croteau; his wife, Carmela Croteau; two daughters, Charity Croteau and Aimee Dubois; three grandchildren; three brothers, Allen Croteau, David Croteau and John Croteau; and a sister, Emily Hufschmidt.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 22 at the First Assembly of God Church, 70 Hogan Road, Lewiston, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The celebration will be followed by a potluck dinner from 6:30 to 8 p.m.