Mark Henry Candelaria

Mark Henry Candelaria, 54, of Thornton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 6, 2024, surrounded by his family after a courageous fight with stage 4 lung cancer. Born on July 8, 1970, in Oakland, California, Mark lived a life full of love, adventure, and service.

A true Oakland original, Mark spent his teenage years as one of the first Guardian Angels in the area, dedicating his time to keeping his community safe. He loved the thrill of the job and the chance to make a real difference.

In 1989, Mark's greatest joy arrived—his son, Joseph David Candelaria. Being a dad was his proudest achievement, and he never missed a chance to brag about Joseph’s latest accomplishments.

Mark had a big heart and was known for his generosity and selflessness. He worked as a plumber and owned his own business for many years, earning a reputation for being fair and honest with his clients.

Mark loved life’s simple pleasures and dedicated himself to caring for his parents until his cancer diagnosis in March 2022. Even then, he faced every challenge with a smile, plenty of jokes, and an unshakeable spirit, always surrounded by his loving family.

Mark is survived by his son, Joseph David Candelaria (Charlotte, NC); his parents, Henry and Juanita Candelaria (Thornton, CO); his older sister, Monica Candelaria (Littleton, CO), and her children, Jack, Matthew, and Lilyana Smith; and his little sister, LeTricia Romo (Candelaria of Thornton, CO), her husband, Rene, and his niece and goddaughter, Nadiya. He’s now reunited with his maternal and paternal grandparents in a place with no pain and plenty of peace.

Join us for a viewing and rosary on Thursday, September 19, from 5-7 PM. The Funeral Mass will be on Friday, September 20, at 11 AM, followed by a celebration of life party at 1 PM at Mark and his family’s home. There will be stories, music, laughter, and probably a few of Mark’s favorite snacks.

Mark will be remembered for his big heart, generosity, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. Here's to Mark—a man who truly knew how to live, love, and laugh.