John Albert Candella

SOUTHBURY - John Albert Candella, 94, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, was called to his eternal resting place on November 8, 2019. He entered this world on July 10, 1925 in New York, New York, born to Frank and Mary Candella (Rappa). He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Carol Ann and Robert V. Bilella, his grandson, Robert J.Bilella, his granddaughter and husband, Angela and Mark Fantin, and great grandchildren, Anthony John and Angelina Rose Fantin.

John was one of nine children born in East Harlem, New York. He loved his neighborhood and had many lifelong friends. He graduated from the New York School of Printing and enlisted in the Marine Corps. John was honorably discharged in March 1945.

John met his love, Angelina Milone (deceased), and married March 5, 1950. The following December 1951, they had their one and only child, Carol Ann. Later, they resided in Bayside, New York until John and Angelina moved to Heritage Village to be closer to their daughter and her family.

He worked in the produce industry. John's first endeavor was buying, ripening, and selling bananas. He later owned a produce store in Jackson Heights, New York, and then became a buyer of produce for stores.

John had many hobbies. He boxed in the Marines, played stickball, baseball, and other sports throughout most of his life. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and the UConn girls basketball team. He loved to do crossword puzzles, read, and play cards.

But, the most important thing of all was his love for his family. Family always came first, and he loved them dearly. He will be missed. John passed at the home of his daughter and son-in-law surrounded by his family - just where he wanted to be.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 22, 2019 at 10 AM at Sacred Heart Church, 910 Main Street South. Interment will take place following Mass at Pine Hill Cemetery, Southbury. The family will receive visitors at Sacred Heart Church Daily Chapel on Thursday, November 21, 2019 from 3:00-7:00 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital and the Ridgefield VNA. Special thanks to his caregivers at River Glen Nursing Home (respite care), and Glenda, his aide at home.

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