Luciano Calandra, Sr.: A Legacy of Love and Hard Work
Luciano Calandra, Sr., the beloved founder of Calandra’s Bakery, recently passed away at the age of 94. His journey from a small farming town in Sicily to creating a bakery empire in North Jersey is a story that many admire. Luciano’s son, Anthony Calandra, recalls, “My father was the classic American success story.” This journey wasn’t just about business; it was about family, dedication, and the love that came with it.
In 1958, at just 28 years old, Luciano made the brave decision to leave his home in Camporeale, Sicily, seeking a brighter future in the United States. He arrived without knowing English and lived with relatives in New Jersey, determined to carve out a better life. His first encounter with baking was during an unpaid apprenticeship at a Newark bakery, where he discovered his passion. By 1962, with his wife Ortenza, he opened the first Calandra’s Bakery, and the rest is history.
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What truly sets Calandra apart is his unwavering commitment to family and community. As his business flourished, he didn’t forget his roots; in fact, he brought his family over from Sicily, sharing his success with them. His work ethic was legendary—Anthony notes that his father “never took a day off” for the first ten years of running the bakery. This dedication paid off, transforming a small shop into a thriving mini-empire with multiple locations and a loyal customer base.
Luciano’s legacy lives on not just in his baked goods, but in the love and respect he built with his employees and customers. Even in his later years, he was known for chatting with patrons, sharing stories, and creating a welcoming environment in his bakeries. Today, Calandra’s Bakery is transitioning to a third generation, with Anthony and his brother Luciano Jr. at the helm, ensuring that their father’s values of hard work and family continue to thrive.
In remembering Luciano Calandra, we see more than just a successful businessman; we see a man who lived a life filled with love, dedication, and community spirit. His story is a testament to the power of hard work and the importance of family ties, making him a cherished figure in North Jersey.