Paul Candela of TLC Tree and Lawn Care Dies October 3

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Paul Candela, beloved owner of TLC Tree and Lawn Care. Paul’s kindness, generosity, and genuine care for his community and clients defined his business and life. His impact on the East End extended far beyond his skill as a “tree guy” – he was a true giver, always looking for ways to help others and improve the lives of those around him.

Paul founded TLC Tree and Lawn Care in 1986, and for nearly 40 years, he approached his work with kindness, fairness, and resourcefulness. His business allowed him to serve his clients in ways that went beyond landscaping. Whether offering a job to someone down on their luck or helping a family member through hard times, Paul used his business to uplift those in need. Through TLC, he provided more than employment – he provided second chances.

To Paul, each property he worked on was like his own, and he approached each client’s budget as though it was his own. He’d often refuse to cut down a tree if he believed he could save it, winning the trust and loyalty of clients who appreciated his dedication to preserving nature. Paul loved his work deeply and treated every job with the utmost care and respect. Many of his clients became lifelong friends, trusting him as an expert and a caring advisor for their property.

Raised “splitting napkins,” Paul was practical and mindful of every penny, always passing on savings to his clients. He wasn’t one to recommend starting over unless absolutely necessary – he believed in working with what you had. His daughter Danielle, who followed in his entrepreneurial footsteps with starting her own business, Tote Taxi, shared, “My father’s hard work, connection to the community, and commitment to family inspired me to become the woman I am today. He encouraged me to enjoy the journey, be present, and appreciate life’s small gifts.”

Earlier this year, Paul experienced a health scare, and the community’s response was overwhelming. While managing communications, his son Kevin shared clients’ kind words, revealing to Paul just how much he was loved. Kevin recalls telling him, “You’ve got a lot of friends who care about you.” Paul was genuinely touched by this outpouring, having always thought he was simply “doing his job.”

In Paul’s honor, Kevin Candela is committed to carrying forward his father’s legacy. “It was always the plan that Dad would pass the torch,” Kevin shared. “I’m grateful he prepared me to continue his work, and I’ll provide the level of care he was known for. Paul would want nothing more than for me to ‘Keep it moving.’”

Paul will be dearly missed by his family, friends, clients, and all who knew him. He is survived by his children, Danielle, Joseph, and Kevin, and his former spouse, Margaret Candela. His generosity and love for his community will live on through his children and TLC Tree and Lawn Care.