Joseph "Joe" George Candelario

Joseph “Joe” George Candelario passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on February 21, 2026, at the age of 80. Born in Denver, Colorado, on April 23, 1945, to Jesusa “Jessie” Flores and Bruno Joe Candelario. Joe grew up in Brighton, where he attended and graduated from Brighton High School. He was the middle of seven siblings: Nancy, Ben, Ed, Trini, Gracie, and Tony.

In June 1964, Joe proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. After completing his service, he explored several career paths—including barbering, water treatment operations, welding, and custodial work—but the role he cherished most was caring for his grandchildren. He created countless memories with them through model building, kite flying, puddle jumping, fishing, bike riding, crafting, gardening, and simply being present for every milestone.

Joe married the love of his life, Selestina “Sally” Candelario, his high school sweetheart. Their 63 years together were defined by unwavering devotion. From carrying her books to school, driving her to appointments, bringing her snacks, and asking daily what she needed, Joe expressed his love through quiet, constant acts of care. His final gesture—driving Sally safely home after their last shared meal—reflected a lifetime of putting her first. She was, as he often said, his “little buddy.”

Joe had a warm, welcoming spirit and a gift for making others feel at ease, whether through a friendly smile or his playful sense of humor. He enjoyed working outdoors, tending to his yard and garden, and restoring antique toys, clocks, radios, and vintage furniture. His collections—masks, sci fi toys, bisque, celluloid and cast iron toys, vintage calendars, models, books, vinyl records, DVDs, and candy—brought him joy and sparked conversation with anyone who visited.

Holidays were especially meaningful to Joe. He decorated every season, down to changing the pillow covers on the couch. Halloween, however, was his true passion. Beginning in the 1980s, he transformed his yard each year with elaborate handmade displays, including a full set of Sesame Street characters he crafted himself. Dressed as Ernie, he delighted neighborhood children with candy and laughter.

Joe rarely said the words “I love you,” but he lived them every day. He gave vehicles to family members, built costumes and props, purchased tools and safety gear for new drivers, created posters for volunteer groups, cared for pets, and fixed anything that needed fixing. Each morning, he woke up thinking about how he could help his family—especially Sally.

Joe is preceded in death by his mother, Jessie; his brother, Benito; and his sister, Gracie. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sally Candelario; his children, Joseph Candelario (Patty) and Sheila Stone (Chad); his grandchildren, Crystal Candelario, Steven Stone, Myles Stone (Jessie); Carlo Candelario (Melaina), Haley Candelario, Joseph Stone, Tricia Stone; and great grandchildren: Mireya, Rose, Mya, Jack and Athena.

Joe’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the traditions he created, and the countless acts of kindness he offered without hesitation. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services for Joseph “Joe” George Candelario will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 2318 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80907. The Rosary will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by Mass of Catholic Burial at 10:30 AM.

Interment with military honors will take place at Pikes Peak National Cemetery, 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80925, at 1:00 PM.