Santo Candella passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of joy, kindness, and love that will never be forgotten.

Santo was born on December 19, 1936, in Niagara Falls, New York, to Anthony and Cora (Zoda) Candella. He grew up on 19th Street alongside parents, two sisters, Lucille and Marie, and his brother, Jimmy.

From an early age, Santo displayed the determination, athleticism, and optimism that would define him throughout his life. As a young boy, he made it all the way to Akron, Ohio, in 1950, to compete in the Soap Box Derby—even after his wheels were stolen the night before the race.

In high school, he was both literally and figuratively “Number 1,” proudly wearing that number as a standout running back for Niagara Falls High School where he was an All-American. He later attended Florida State University on a football scholarship before returning home to Niagara Falls to be with his sweetheart. Amid all his athletic pursuits, Santo met the true love of his life, Adeline, in the ninth grade. From that moment on, they were forever attached at the heart. They married on April 4, 1958 in St. Leo’s Church and built a beautiful life together, welcoming two sons, Kenneth and Anthony. Their remarkable marriage spanned 68 years and remained the center of Santo’s life.

After an early venture owning a bar and restaurant came to an unexpected end in a fire, Santo began a new chapter by establishing B & C Construction with his business partner, Sonny Barone, that later became Candella Construction. Together, they built a successful and respected construction company. Years later, Santo’s son Ken joined the business and eventually took over its leadership, continuing the family legacy by building homes and townhouses and remodeling many residences throughout the area. Santo and Sonny proudly erected the St. Jude Shrine in Lewiston, NY, a symbol of their devotion to faith and community.

Santo was always the life of the party and the ultimate optimist. People naturally gravitated toward him, eager to say hello, receive one of his warm hugs, or shake his hand. Dining out could often take a little longer because so many friends and acquaintances stopped by the table to greet him. Santo had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, important, and loved.

His passion for sports remained with him throughout his life. In later years, he enjoyed golf and tennis, competing in matches and tournaments—and winning many of them. In 2016, he was humbly inducted into the Niagara Falls Sports Hall of Fame. To his family and friends, Santo would always be remembered as an “All-American” athlete, not only for his athletic abilities but also for the enthusiasm, perseverance, and heart he brought to everything he did.

He will also be fondly remembered for “Santo’s Meatballs,” each one nearly the size of a fist; his chocolate hot pudding sundaes; and his lifelong love of sweets.

More than any other holiday, Santo loved Christmas because it truly represented who he was: joyous, always celebrating, loving and generous, and forever searching for the wonder in life—with a big cigar in his hand and an even bigger smile on his face.

Santo is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Adeline Candella; his son Kenneth Candella and his wife, Mary Lynn Fruscione Candella; his son Anthony Candella and his partner, Peter Malachi; his beloved granddaughter, Julie Ann Candella; and her fiancé, George Churakos. Santo was predeceased by his three siblings, Lucille (late Phil) DiPasquale, Marie (late Kenneth) Johnson and James Candella.

Santo’s warmth, generosity, optimism, and unmistakable presence will live on in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to have known and loved him.

Visitation will be on Thursday, August 6 from 3 – 6 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Santo’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 7 at 11:00 in St. Bernard’s Church, 218 Hinman St, Youngstown, NY 14174. Entombment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Memorial offerings may be made to the St. Jude Shrine at 975 Ridge Rd, Lewiston, NY 14092. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.