CROSS PLAINS - Peter John Candella, age 89, of Cross Plains, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 2, 2025. He was born on February 8, 1936, in Madison, Wisconsin, the son of Joseph and Josephine (Trapino) Candella.

Peter attended Central High School in Madison and joined the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957. He graduated from Beauty School in Rochester, N.Y. on February 13, 1959. He proceeded to have his own hair salon for many years.

Peter was united in marriage to Colleen T. Ryan in 1959, and they had three children. Later on in life, he moved to Vegas. Many years later, he moved back to McFarland, Wisconsin.

Peter enjoyed his family. He loved cooking, and he especially looked forward to making his “Italian Spaghetti” for whoever would indulge, singing to Elvis, Dino, or Sinatra. He enjoyed watching the Packers, reading, and was passionate about horse racing. Formulating became a favorite hobby.

Along with being charming, Peter could make anyone laugh. His sense of humor was contagious and usually you would still be laughing out loud days later.

Peter is survived by his children, Deborah Candella and Michael (Linda) Candella; grandchildren, Grace Wyngaard and Ryan Candella; sister, Jackie Hanson; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Peter was welcomed into Heaven by his loving daughter, Michelle Candella; twin sister, Virginia Sybers; brother-in-law, Albert Hanson; nephew, Robbie Hanson; and great-niece, Rosa Hanson.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL HOME, 7435 University Ave. Middleton, WI, on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. Family and friends who wish to view the service via LIVESTREAM may visit Peter’s obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com at the time of the service and click on Watch Now in the Webcast section. A private burial will be held at Resurrection Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the amazing care and support from all of the Cross Plains EMT- the NuCare team, St. Mary’s Hospital, ICU Nurse Kaeli, cuz Dawn and friend Rosie.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761

Peter J. Candella

February 08, 1936 - March 02, 2025

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