Joseph M. "Joe" Flaherty, 65, of Framingham, formally of Ashland, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 15, 2013. Born in Framingham, he was the son of the late H. Raymond and Josephine (Conners) Flaherty. A gifted artist, Joe served his country honorably in the Marine Corp. during Vietnam. He is the beloved father to; Joseph M. Jr. of Ashland, MA; Brian R. of Seattle, WA; and Meaghan A. of Templeton, MA; his siblings; Regina Lewis of Thousand Oaks, CA.; Richard and wife Judy of Ashland, MA; many nieces and nephews; and former wife Maureen (Megin) Flaherty. He was preceded in death by six siblings, Raymond F., Paul G., Leo P., David J., Gerald A., and Mary M English. Joe served his country proudly as a Marine from November 1966 until his honorable discharge in August 1970 that included two tours in Viet Nam as a forward observer with the 11th Marine Regiment 1st Marine Division. He was very proud to say that he was only the fifth person to serve as commander of both the VFW Post 2331 Ashland, and the American Legion Post 77 Ashland. He was a gifted artist who produced many beautiful pieces of artwork. He loved his three children and considered them his masterpieces. A funeral service will be held Tuesday Feb. 19th at 10am in the Chapel of the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. in Ashland. Burial with military honors will be held Wednesday Feb. 20th at 10:30am in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA. Calling hours will be held Monday from 5:00-7:00 PM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250 or the charity of your choice.