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Candace Louise Carlson Murray

1942 - 2024

 

Candace Louise Carlson Murray
June 30, 1942 ~ January 1, 2024 (age 81)

Candace Louise Carlson Murray, 81, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away at home on January 1, 2024. She was born on June 30, 1942, in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to the late James Gustaf Carlson and Clarice Louise Carlson.

Candace, known for her positive outlook on life, aimed to "accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, and not mess with Mr. In-Between." She was a devoted wife to her late husband, Michael John Murray, and a loving mother to her son, James Arthur Murray, and her daughter, Joan Logan Murray. She adored her granddaughter, Klare Ellen Murray, and cherished the time spent with her family.

Candace graduated from Klemme High School where she played the trombone and sang in the choir. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Iowa. She furthered her education at Simmons College, where she earned a Master's degree in Library Science.

During her husband's medical training, Candace worked as a Reference Librarian at Harvard Countway Library of Medicine. Afterward, the family lived overseas while Michael was in the Air Force, and she enjoyed traveling in Europe and the Middle East during this time.

After settling in Fort Myers in the mid-1970s, she played a vital role in establishing and supporting her husband's solo medical practice. For 30 years, Candace wore many hats, including audiologist, office manager, and medical transcriptionist. Her dedication and hard work were instrumental to the success of the practice. She was also “pit crew chief” for Michael as they participated in vintage auto racing around the country. On weekends not involving racing, she was "swim mom" to both kids.

Candace found fulfillment in following University of Iowa sports, watching Formula 1 racing, reading, cross-stitching, and pursuing service and Bible study activities at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church.

A service to celebrate Candace's life will be held at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, at 4141 Deleon St in Fort Myers, on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 11am.

Candace will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, positivity, and dedication will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.

Memorial Service: Saturday January 13, 2024, 11:00 AM, Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, 4141 De Leon Street, Ft. Myers, FL 33901.