Pragluski, William John

William John Pragluski, 90, of Newington, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 31, 2022. Born in Hartford, son of the late William and Josephine Pragluski, he attended Loomis Academy in Windsor then graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston, MA with his Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics and Mathematics. Bill's career was an awe-inspiring one. His accomplishments included work with Martin Marietta Aerospace and the Gemini Space Program. He was a nationally respected aerospace engineer, and was key to the success of all the Apollo space missions, the Mars Viking craft and the International Space Station. As early as 1970, he was awarded Nasa's Engineer of the Year for design of the Viking Spacecraft mission and systems analysis. Bill was an avid reader, and loved the ocean and boating. He had a great interest in all aspects of aviation. He enjoyed traveling anywhere, at any time, to do activities with his family. He was known to all as a caring, quiet, uncomplaining, wise and generous person; always steadfast and honorable. He was not overtly emotional, but always had an uncanny sensitivity to others' needs and would go above and beyond to meet anyone's needs at any time. A loving father and grandfather, he is survived by his son William F. Pragluski and his wife Carol Conley of Sperryville, VA, his daughter Donna M. Marks of Newington, brother-in-law Paul Martinook of Newington, his great grandsons, Tony, Jake and Austin Porras of Littleton, CO and his grandson-in-law, Joel Porras of Littleton, CO. In addition to his parents, Bill has joyfully joined in heaven his beloved granddaughter, Sandra Catherine Porras, his sister Elinor Martinook, and his wife Barbara Pragluski. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated and superb professionals of Jefferson House nursing facility and Cedar Mountain Commons assisted living. Their conscientious love and skill was a source of great comfort always. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, April 12th, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. in West Meadow Cemetery, 679 Willard Ave. Newington. Duksa Family Funeral Homes at Newington Memorial, 20 Bonair Ave., Newington is serving his family. To share a memory with his family, please visit us at www.duksa.net.

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