Obituary of Frank Candella

ILION/FLORIDA - Mr. Frank Candella, age 98, a former longtime Ilion resident and currently of Zephyrhills, Florida, passed away, peacefully, early Tuesday morning, August 1, 2017, at the Gulfside Center for Hospice Care, surrounded by the love and support of his family at his bedside. 

Born on September 26, 1918 in Little Falls, Frank was the son of the late Michael and Mary (Marino) Candella. He was raised and educated locally and attended Dolgeville High School. On February 7, 1942, Frank enlisted with the United States Army and proudly served as a medic throughout World War II, achieving the rank of Tech 4th Grade. He was honorably discharged on October 10, 1945, shortly after the United States Victory and remained a staunch patriot and veteran for the rest of his life.

On June 16, 1946, Frank was wed to his sweetheart, the late Rosalia “Rosemary” Vaniglia, and the two shared in a blessed and devoted union of 65 years, until Rosemary’s passing on October 19, 2011. Frank’s family takes comfort in the knowledge that he is once again reunited with his beloved wife, and his Savior in heaven.

For many years Frank worked in quality control for International Computer Limited in Utica. After his retirement, he served as a school bus driver with Birnie Bus, transporting special needs students for the Ilion Central School District. He was a hardworking man with a kind heart and a deep love for his family, his country and for God. He truly exemplified what it meant to be a part of the “Greatest Generation” and will leave a lasting legacy to his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Renee Michele and Philip Rucinski of Chesterfield, MI; his son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Sharon Candella of Middleville; his grandchildren, Amber Rose Rurka, Anthony Frank Rurka, Kristen Candella and Michelle Rife; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides his parents and wife, Frank was predeceased by his brothers, Gene Candella and Jerry Candella, and his sisters, Dolores Klock, Victoria Sigoves and Anne Anderson.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, August 5, 2017, from 10:00AM – 12NOON, at the original Enea Family Funeral Home (FKA Holleran Funeral Service) 220 North Washington Street, Herkimer, NY (315) 866-1011. Frank’s funeral service and Celebration of Life, will commence at 12NOON, at the funeral home, immediately upon the conclusion of visitation with Pastor David Hayner of the New Life Church in Herkimer, officiating. Procession will follow to Dolgeville Cemetery where Frank’s earthly body will be laid to rest beside his wife.

Funeral services were pre-arranged and entrusted to Harry and Kevin Enea and Martin L. Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.