EAST CANAAN — Nicholas Gandolfo Jr., 94, of East Canaan, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, following a courageous battle with kidney cancer and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Born and raised in East Canaan, Nick was the son of Nicholas Gandolfo Sr. and Marie Zucco Gandolfo, both Italian immigrants. He embraced his Italian heritage with great pride throughout his life.
From an early age, Nick developed a deep love for the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing. These passions remained a source of joy and connection throughout his lifetime.
Nick proudly served his country as a United States Marine during the Korean War. During his distinguished and heroic service, he received numerous medals and citations, most notably for his actions during the Battle of the Hook, where he helped save members of his platoon despite sustaining injuries himself. His courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to others defined not only his military service but also the way he lived his life.
A devoted advocate for veterans, Nick was actively involved with the Marine Corps League, where he helped establish a scholarship fund. He was also a dedicated member of the Canaan Couch-Pipa VFW, through which he provided durable medical equipment—and often Girl Scout cookies—to veterans living in VA homes and hospitals, including Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. His generosity extended far beyond the veteran community. Nick was known for supporting numerous charitable causes and serving those in need, including helping provide Thanksgiving dinners to local families.
Nick also dedicated 25 years of service as a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Canaan, further demonstrating his lifelong commitment to helping others.
He will be remembered for his quick wit, spirited personality, and unmistakable charm. A shameless flirt, Nick delighted in competing with his friends to see who could collect the most hugs at any social gathering. Thanks to his warmth and charisma, he almost always won..
He leaves behind his loving daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his brother, many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of East Mountain House, Geer, Salisbury Visiting Nurse Association, and the Winsted Veterans Affairs office, for their compassionate care and support.
Private wake and burial services will be held for the family. Friends and loved ones are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of Life on June 20, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Canaan Couch-Pipa VFW.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to East Mountain House, P.O. Box 1405, Lakeville, CT 06039.
Nick spent his final days at East Mountain House, surrounded not only by his family but also by an extraordinary team of caregivers who provided exceptional comfort, dignity, and support. His family will be forever grateful for the kindness and compassion shown to him during his final journey.
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