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John Albert Candelori
July 16, 1929- June 27, 2021
John Candelori passed peacefully after a long illness on Sunday, June 27, 2021, in the presence of his family.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Olga; his daughters Neeva-Gayle and Melaney; Melaney’s husband Chris; his cherished grandson John Morgan; his niece Rachel and her husband Joe and their son Mark. John is also survived by numerous members of his extended family, and many dear friends whom he considered family
Born in the small town of West Grove, PA, John grew up in South Philadelphia with his parents, John Candelori Sr, and Rachel (nee Debonis) and his older brother, the late William (Bill) Candelori Sr. He joined the army in 1946 and served one tour in South Korea prior to the outbreak of the Korean War. After being honorably discharged, he took advantage of the GI Bill to become the first person in his family to earn a college degree. He graduated from Drexel University and went to work for Sears, where he met his future wife, and the love of his life, Olga (nee Samilo)
John and Olga married in 1965, and John converted to his wife’s faith of Russian Orthodoxy. He was a devout member of St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox for over 45 years, serving on the church council and as a member of the choir. In 1966, John and Olga moved to their current home in Cherry Hill. In 1969 they welcomed their first daughter, Neeva-Gayle, and in 1971 they welcomed their second daughter Melaney. In 1996 they celebrated their daughter Melaney’s marriage to her husband Chris Bedard, and in 2012 were thrilled to welcome their grandson, and his namesake, John Morgan.
John was known for many things, his love of golf, opera, old movies, Italian food and wine, and his love of travel. But more than that, he was known for his cheerful disposition, his love for his family and friends, his hospitality, his generosity, his loyalty and for the joy he carried in his heart every day.
The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to them and shared their love for John and their favorite memories. Your support and love through this difficult time is deeply appreciated.
Services will be held to celebrate John’s life at St. Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church on Wednesday, July 7th, beginning with a viewing at 9 AM and Requiem Services at 10 AM. Graveside services at Lawn Croft Cemetery and a luncheon will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in John’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate. The first survivor of Alzheimer’s is out there. Together we can fight this terrible disease.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Albert Candelori, please visit our floral store.
Alzheimer's Association
225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl 17, Chicago IL 60601
Web: https://www.alz.org/