News Summary
John Kupis, a renowned culinary artist and beloved family patriarch from North Providence, RI, has passed away at the age of 82. Known for his mentoring in the culinary community and cherished family traditions centered around food and love, Kupis leaves behind a legacy that will be fondly remembered by many. His work as head chef at Capriccio and owner of multiple eateries marked his significant contributions to Rhode Island’s culinary scene. His life was celebrated through shared meals, family stories, and a passion for horse racing.
North Providence, RI – John Kupis, an esteemed culinary artist and beloved patriarch, passed away at the age of 82 on September 18, 2025. Surrounded by family, Kupis left behind a rich legacy of love, mentorship, and exceptional cuisine in the Rhode Island community.
Born on June 17, 1943, in Troszyn, Poland during the tumultuous years of World War II, Kupis spent his childhood summers at his grandfather’s farm in the village of Dąbek. His family immigrated to the United States in December 1960, eventually settling in North Providence, RI. He attended Central High School and later took courses at Classical High School before pursuing higher education at Providence College.
John Kupis made a significant mark in the culinary world, starting his career at Camille’s Restaurant on Federal Hill in Providence, where he developed a cherished friendship with Vincenzo Iemma. Over the years, he owned and operated several restaurants across Rhode Island, gaining recognition for his role as head chef at Capriccio, where he worked for decades. His contributions to the culinary arts earned him the affectionate nickname “Papa John” among staff and aspiring chefs, as he took pride in mentoring many throughout his career.
A devoted family man, Kupis is survived by his wife, Darlene, whom he was married to for 46 years, and their daughter, Shayna Cimarelli, along with her husband, Daniello. He cherished his role as a grandfather to his beloved granddaughters, Aria and Mila, who were the joy of his life. Kupis maintained a close relationship with his sister, Donna DelFiore, sharing mutual support after their immigration to America. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, who will remember him for his wisdom, humor, generosity, and love of food.
At the heart of his family life, John was known for expressing love through shared meals and stories. His passion extended beyond the kitchen; he had a fervent interest in horse racing, which brought him joy throughout his life. He was remembered not only for his culinary talents but also for his loving stubbornness and the warmth he brought into the lives of those around him.
In acknowledgment of his life, visiting hours will be held on September 24, 2025, at Nardolillo Funeral Home in Cranston, RI, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. A Catholic Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Apostles Church in Cranston. Though burial services will be omitted, his family intends to honor his legacy by continuing traditions that celebrate shared meals, cherished memories, and loving stories about his life.
John Kupis’s impact on his family and the culinary community will be fondly remembered as a testament to a life well-lived, filled with devotion, passion, and the enjoyment of food and family.
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Additional Resources
- Nardolillo Funeral Home: John Kupis
- Wikipedia: Culinary Arts
- Dignity Memorial: Damion Jackson
- Google Search: John Kupis
- Legacy: Hector Benoit
- Google Scholar: Culinary Arts
- Providence Journal: Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Culinary Traditions
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
