Henry H. Kandzerski Sr.

Henry H. Kandzerski, Sr. October 21, 1938 to September 3, 2026 Henry H. Kandzerski Sr., 87, of Johnston, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, September 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Henry was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather and great-grandfather, loyal friend, and a man whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and joy to those fortunate enough to know him. His life was a tapestry woven with strength, ambition, persistence, resilience, and, above all, love for his family and the many people and animals who became part of his life. Born on October 21, 1938, in Providence, RI, Henry was the son of the late Henry and Edith (Caldwell) Kandzerski. He was the beloved brother of the late Joan Laycock and David Kandzerski. From an early age, Henry demonstrated a strong sense of duty and determination. His military career took him through several branches of service, including the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Coast Guard Reserves. He devoted the majority of his military service to the United States Coast Guard, serving during the Vietnam conflict. His years of military service spanned from 1956 through 1969, reflecting his commitment to serving his country and his willingness to answer the call of duty. It was during his military years that Henry met the love of his life, Kathryn (DiCicco) Kandzerski, also of Providence. Their meeting marked the beginning of a remarkable love story that continued for 67 years. Together, Henry and Kathryn built a life filled with family, friendship, hard work, laughter, and countless memories. Kathryn was not only his beloved wife but his lifelong partner and best friend, and she survives him. After working in several different vocations, Henry's entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue a dream of his own. In 1977, he founded Aladdin Electric Inc., a commercial and industrial electrical wiring company. With determination, skill, and an unwavering work ethic, Henry built the company into a successful and lasting business. A proud longtime member of IBEW Local Union 99, he took great pride in his work and in the company he created. Nearly 50 years later, Aladdin Electric remains a testament to Henry's vision, dedication, and perseverance, having been proudly passed down through two generations of his family. While Henry accomplished much throughout his life, his greatest source of pride and happiness was his family. He is survived by his three children, Lisa Ouellette, Henry Kandzerski, Jr., and Kristen Kandzerski; four grandchildren, Kristopher Ouellette, Kathryn (Kate) Kandzerski, Lauren Carcamo, and Joshua Kandzerski; and three great-grandchildren, Octavia Kandzerski, Parker Kandzerski, and Amalia Carcamo. Family and friends were at the very heart of Henry's life. He believed in living life to the fullest and rarely passed up an opportunity to share good times with the people he loved. Whether attending an activity, gathering with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying the company of those around him, Henry brought enthusiasm, humor, and a genuine zest for life. He participated in whatever activities he was invited to and seemed to have a special talent for making every occasion more memorable. Henry also possessed a tremendous love for animals. Wherever he encountered one, he was likely to make a new friend. He had a special gift for connecting with animals and enjoyed spending time training the pets in his life to perform some impressive and entertaining tricks. The affection he gave them was returned many times over, and his love for animals was a reflection of the kindness and tenderness he carried throughout his life. Henry loved several genres of music. He was always whistling a tune or singing ‘Mairzy Doates’, or blasting the Polish Polkas on a Sunday. He had a remarkable gift for music and could play the violin, guitar, piano, organ, and harmonica with great skill and passion. When he was first introduced to the harp, he quickly learned to play “Silent Night,” creating a beautiful and memorable moment for everyone who heard him. Henry had an extraordinary ear for music—he could hear a song and bring it to life on almost any instrument. His natural talent, passion, and joy for music touched everyone around him and will always be remembered. His interests and friendships enriched his life in countless ways. Henry enjoyed an abundant social life and was a member of the Santa Maria Di Prata Society, Pine Tree Gun Club, and Johnston Town Hall Lanes Bowling League. He was an avid Lionel train collector and an enthusiastic antique car aficionado, with a particular fondness for his beautifully restored 1957 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday Coupe. These hobbies reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship, history, and the simple pleasure of sharing his passions with others. Henry will be remembered for his strong character, determination, generosity, sense of humor, and ability to find enjoyment in the people and experiences around him. He leaves behind not only a loving family but a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring smiles and laughter for generations to come. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the business he built, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched along the way. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the personnel of the Providence VA for the support and assistance they provided to Henry and his family. They also wish to express their deepest appreciation to HopeHealth Hospice of Rhode Island for their compassionate care, comfort, and kindness during Henry's final days. Funeral services will be private. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Henry's memory to HopeHealth Hospice of Providence or the ASPCA of Rhode Island.