Napolean R. Candida, Jr., 38, of New Bedford died unexpectedly Sunday, January 28, 2024.
Born in Brighton, MA, beloved son of Maria Margarida DePina, he was raised in Nashua, New Hampshire and moved to New Bedford, MA in 2002. As of late, he had been spending much of his time in Cape Cod renovating his new home that he and his partner, Matt, had planned to share.
He had built a reputable career in the restaurant industry and was instrumental in opening several restaurants. More recently, at Alden Park where he dedicated seven years as a bartender and was loved by many of his colleagues and coworkers, who were like family, and its community.
Napolean, also affectionately known as "Junior", enjoyed traveling with his partner and his closest friend Brian. He loved to explore new places and cultures and considered himself a global citizen. He had a charismatic personality and an energy shifting aura that brought light into any room. His clever sense of humor, warm smile and charm had a way of drawing people in and it would not be long before he made you a cocktail and time would easily slip away in laughter and conversation. He was a great friend, son, brother and proud uncle. He always gave a listening ear and cared deeply. He was also known for his great sense of style and aesthetic eye. A creative at heart. Above all, Napolean was incredibly kind and would often give even if it meant he would go without. He loved spending time with his family, especially his nephews, who he adored and treated as his own children, and his mother, who he loved and cared for. He was a beautiful soul who lived authentically. Always handling life's obstacles with grace. A man of his word and true gentleman. To know him was to love him.
He is survived by his mother, Maria Margarida DePina; his grandfather, Oliveiro DePina; his life partner of 17 years, Matt Catalani; two sisters, Melissa Candida-Britto and her husband Michael Britto, and Vivianna DePina; and three nephews, Kaeson, Micah, and Sevyn. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins, with whom he shared a close bond.
He was predeceased by his grandmother, Eugenia DePina; his uncle, Amancio DePina; his aunt, Madalena Guevara; and his cousin, Gina Pires.
His Funeral Mass will be held Monday, February 5, 2024 at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 47 South Sixth St., New Bedford, with everyone meeting directly at the Church. Visiting hours will be Sunday, February 4, 2024 from 4-8 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.