John Kupis

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Kupis, of North Providence, RI. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, John passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on September 18, 2025, surrounded by the family who loved him dearly.

Born in Troszyn, Poland on June 19, 1943, during WWII, John spent much of his childhood enjoying summers at his grandfather’s farm in the village of Dąbek. His family later moved to Warsaw before immigrating to the United States in December 1960, seeking freedom from Poland’s forced alignment with the communist party.

John attended Central High School in Providence along with his sister who, where he worked hard to master the English language, while also taking academic courses at Classical High School. After graduation, he continued his education at Providence College.

New to the United States as a young man, John began working at Camille’s Restaurant on Federal Hill in Providence, where he formed a lifelong friendship with Vincenzo Iemma. Their bond grew into a brotherhood that lasted throughout their lives, and they remained inseparable until John’s final day, a bond that could never be replaced.

John’s love of food and culinary arts became his life’s work. He owned, operated, and served as head chef at several restaurants across Rhode Island before settling into his longtime role at Capriccio, where he worked for decades. Known lovingly to the staff as “Papa John,” he was a fixture at the restaurant and a mentor to many.

At his core, John was a family man. He was endlessly proud of his daughter Shayna, always reminding her of his pride, but in her heart, she will forever be the proud one, grateful for the man who shaped her life. He shared a special bond with his son-in-law, Daniello, whom he loved like a son, and the two could often be found in lively conversations about football. He adored his granddaughters, Aria and Mila, who brought him immeasurable joy and pride. A devoted husband to his wife of 46 years, Darlene, John expressed his love in countless ways, often through the endless home-cooked meals he prepared for her. He also shared a lifelong closeness with his sister, Donna; when they first came to this country, they were inseparable and leaned on each other as they began their new lives. His family will remember him for his wisdom, humor, generosity, love of food, passion for horse racing, and his stubbornness, which he wore like a badge of honor and never failed to make known.

John is survived by his wife, Darlene; daughter Shayna Cimarelli and her husband Daniello; and granddaughters Aria and Mila. He also leaves behind his sister, Donna DelFiore, as well as nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Chester and Marianna Kupis.

Visiting hours to honor John’s life will be held on Wednesday, September 24, at Nardolillo Funeral Home, Cranston, RI from 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m., followed by a Catholic Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Apostles Church, Cranston.

John’s greatest legacy is the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. His memory will live on in every meal shared, every story told, and every hug given a little tighter.

His funeral will be held on Wednesday, September 24th at 10 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston, followed by his Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. in Holy Apostles Church, Cranston. VISITING HOURS: WEDNESDAY 9-10 a.m. Burial is respectfully omitted.