1946 - 2026
Jack was the beloved husband of Marian (Fitzpatrick) Candini, with whom he shared 47 years of marriage. He is also survived by his son, Bryan Candini and his wife, Arielle (Cecala), of Quincy; his daughter, Alyssa Candini and her husband, Brendan Leo, of Upton; and his grandchildren, twin granddaughters Savannah and Grayson Leo and grandson Wesley Leo. He also leaves his brother, Robert Candini and his wife, Mary (Marley), along with many extended family members, godchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Patricia Ann Candini.
A graduate of Milford High School, Class of 1963, Jack earned both a bachelor’s degree and MBA from Suffolk University. He spent many years as a Business Education teacher at Milford High School, retiring in 2004. He also coached ice hockey, field hockey, and softball.
Jack proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War with MACV and the 4th Infantry Division in 1967 and 1968. He attained the rank of Sergeant and received the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Army Commendation Medal. In 2025, he was honored as Grand Marshal of the Milford Veterans Day Parade.
A lifelong hockey enthusiast, Jack played in men’s leagues and tournaments throughout New England and Canada for more than 60 years. He was a member of the Central Mass Rusty Blades Hockey Club, the American Legion, and the Hoboken Citizens Club. He was also a devoted Boston sports fan, particularly of the Bruins.
Jack enjoyed music, historical trivia, his morning Honey Dew coffee, and traveling. He visited every U.S. state and the provinces of Canada and enjoyed family trips throughout the United States, Western Europe, and Asia.
Above all, Jack cherished his family. He especially enjoyed time spent on Cape Cod and in Narragansett, Rhode Island, watching his children participate in sports and making memories with his grandchildren. He was often behind the camera, capturing those moments for his family to treasure.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 1st from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home, located at 44 Congress Street in Milford.
His funeral will be held Friday, October 2nd at 9:00 AM from the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, located at 7 East Main Street in Milford. Burial with military honors will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in support of Savannah Marian Leoto, further cancer research and patient care.
