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Isabelino Candelaria Obituary
Isabelino “Cande” Candelaria
Age 94, of Munster, formerly of East Chicago, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Munster Community Hospital. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen; loving children: Carlos (Barbara), Rey (Frances), Mara (Matthew) Candelaria Reardon, and Christian (Kathleen) Candelaria; cherished grandchildren: Josue, David, Israel, Joshua, Isabela, Luca, Eliana, Maya, Christian, Victoria, Carlo and Olivia; precious great grandchildren: Israel, Jude, and Ocean; devoted sister, Lydia Aguila; many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Victoria Soto Candelaria; his son, Isabelino Jr.; grandson, Israel Candelaria Mejias; brothers, Modesto and Sergio Candelaria.
A proud U.S. Army Veteran, Isabelino honorably served his country during the Korean War. He was a longtime resident of both East Chicago and Munster, and his legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Indiana history. Isabelino was the first Puerto Rican city councilman in the state, serving with distinction on the East Chicago City Council. He later retired from the Lake County Courts, where he worked as a dedicated probation officer. He was at the forefront of many battles that focused on equality, such as the fight for civil rights, voting rights, and the war on poverty. He spent his final days surrounded by his family. He will be dearly missed by all his loving family and friends.
A Memorial Mass will be held, Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Maria Goretti, Dyer, IN. Friends may visit with the family from 10:30 AM, until the time of Mass. Immediately following the Mass, a memorial service will be held at Innsbrook Country Club, 6701 W. Taft St., Merrillville, IN. At rest at Ridgelawn Cemetery Gary, Indiana.
Memories and Condolences
for Isabelino Candelaria
Evelyn Morrison
August 23, 2025
I was in Colombia when our Dear Candy passed away. We have nothing but fond memories of Candy especially when he hung out with my dear father Alfredo Chona. They are together again now in heaven hanging out like they used to when we all lived in Munster.
My condolences to the whole family.
Evelyn Chona Morrison and family
Mary Licavoli
August 17, 2025
Ellen, I was googling your name to wish you a Happy Birthday and saw that Chello has passed. Our sincere condolences for your great loss to you and your family. He was such a kind man and we enjoyed our times together and his many interesting stories. Mary your memories comfort you in time. So very sorry.
Angela Pirosko
June 8, 2025
May his memory be a blessing.
Sonja Ross-Redmond
May 29, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Cande was a kind and thoughtful person and so glad to have known him.
Mario Rosa
May 27, 2025
Just saw this obituary this morning and a lot of wonderful memories flooded my mind. Cande was a very long time friend and very much loved part of the Rosa family. He always greeted us with his warm smile and he will always hold a special place in our hearts and memories. Here he is with my My Uncle Miguel "Billy".Our sincere condolences to the entire Candelaria family.
-Mario, Manny, Luis, Miriam, and Ada Rosa
Leane Cerven
May 27, 2025
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope your fond memories bring you comfort.
Louis Aguilera
May 26, 2025
Our deepest condolences to all of the Candelaria Family and Friends. May his memory be eternal .
Loni Dorall
May 26, 2025
Chelo was such an inspiration to me! In our many conversations (usually in the garage) we covered inhouse,
local, and country issues. His thoughts lay in making things better, safer. Chelo was always "the gentleman"; his old school respect manifested itself in the success and quality behavior of his now adult children. I'm glad I had the opportunity to know him.
Norman Edward Sheets
May 25, 2025
My thoughts and prayers for the family, I enjoyed working with Candy in Judge schiralli's office
VICTORIA BRANT
May 24, 2025
We will remember Cande forever!
Our love and condolences to all of his wonderful family.
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Funeral services provided by:
Solan Pruzin Funeral Home & Crematory - Schererville14 Kennedy Avenue, Schererville, IN 46375