Candlena, Matthew D. “Papa”, 81, of North Tonawanda on Monday (April 25, 2005) at his residence after a long illness. Matthew was a member of Ascension R.C. Church. He was a WWII U.S. Army Veteran, who served in the Pacific Theater and a member of Stephen Sikora Post #1322. He was the owner of Matt’s Mobil Service Station for over 35 years. Brother of the late Rose (Michael) Guarnieri.

Beloved husband of Josephine (nee Cardinale) Candlena of North Tonawanda. Loving father of Phillip Candlena (Kathy Henwood) and Mary Jo (Paul) Murphy of both of North Tonawanda, M. Donald Candlena (Robin Haigh) of Niagara Falls, Michelle Miller (Tim Eiswerth) of Montoursville, PA and David Anthony (Christina) Candlena of North Tonawanda. Dear brother of Connie (August) Kupco of Buffalo, Russell (Elaine) Candlena of the Town of Tonawanda, Mildred (William) Downey of Glendale, AZ and Eileen (Edwin) Zwetsch of North Tonawanda. Proud grandfather of Christopher and Timothy Murphy, Nicole Candlena, Sean and Amie Miller and Matthew and Lauren Candlena. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Friends received by the family on Thursday 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Brunner Funeral Home (692-3841) 156 Robinson Street, North Tonawanda where services will be held on Friday morning at 9:00 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 at Ascension R.C. Church. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. The family asks that memorials be made to Niagara County Hospice, Inc.