Joseph T. Candlen

Joseph T. Candlen, 84, died Wednesday, July 27, 2011 after an extended illness. He leaves his loving wife Frances P. (Larkin) Candlen; his son, TJ Candlen and wife Chrissy of Westford, his daughters, Lynne Dimond and husband David of Norfolk, Joanne Candlen-Tocci and Jeff Cross of Medfield; as well as nine grandchildren; Eric, Jill, and Kerry Candlen; Danielle, Spencer and Sydnie Dimond; RJ , Brianna and Michael Tocci as well as his loving companion and pet Bailey.
In his early years, after attending Dedham High School, Joe entered military service in the 34th Infantry Regiment where he was assigned to Headquarters’ Company, stationed in the South Pacific just prior to the invasion of Japan. While assigned on reconnaissance for combat missions, he served his platoon as the 1st Scout in the rank of Sergeant. Later, after the war ended, Joe stayed in Japan where he toured while playing baseball the on the US team.
In 1960 he met Frances Larkin, from Brighton, while vacationing on Cape Cod. They were married in 1961 at St. Columbkille’s Parish in Brighton and enjoyed fifty happy years together. He and Fran raised a family together in the town of Needham. Joe attended college at Suffolk University and then enjoyed a long and rewarding career as a sales engineer with Boston Filter and then Distributor Corporation of New England in the Worcester County area. Over the years, his expertise and reputation led him to be named among the top employees in his company where he was rewarded with several international travel opportunities which he enjoyed with his young family.
Joe lived an active life and enjoyed many outdoor sports well into his eighties. He was an avid skier and was a member of BAGS, the Boston Amateur Golf Society. In retirement, Joe enjoyed spending time with his family and golfing.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tues Aug 2 at 10 AM in St. Joseph Church Needham. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours will be in the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave. Needham on Monday from 4-7 PM. Interment with Military Honors at Needham Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations in Joe’s name may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville FL, 32256.

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