Candace Rae Streams, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at her residence. Born on May 24, 1948, in Punxsutawney, Candace, daughter of Benjamin Eugene Thomas and Virginia Ellen Van Horn was raised in Marion Center and lived a life filled with love, compassion, and dedication of service to others.
Candace began her journey of service early on, starting her career at FMC in Homer City and later dedicating herself to the community through her work at Citizen’s Ambulance Service as an ambulance attendant, dispatcher, and volunteer for annual membership drives. Her commitment to helping others continued as she served as a Clinical Secretary at Indiana Hospital from 1969 to 1972, providing comfort and support to patients and their families during challenging times.
From there, Candace held various roles including positions at Bon Ton, Hallmark Distributor, and as Secretary to the Coroner and a deputy coroner for Indiana County from 1973 to 2001. Her dedication and professionalism earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and community members alike.
During her tenure at IRMC in Medical Records from 1990 to 2000, Candace continued to make a positive impact, ensuring the efficient operation of medical services and upholding the highest standards of care for patients.
Outside of her professional life, Candace was an active member of the community, participating in organizations such as the Jr Women Civic Club, the Red Cross Bloodmobile, the Cancer Society, serving as the Leading Knight at the Elks and as the activity’s coordinator, and serving as a Girl Scout leader and PTA volunteer. Her selflessness and generosity touched the lives of countless individuals and families in need.
In her leisure time, Candace enjoyed pursuing her hobbies, including card clubs, Mahjong, card making, crafts, and her spirited attempts to learn knitting and crocheting. She also cherished her adventures in RVing and camping, finding joy and relaxation in exploring new destinations and making memories with her husband and loved ones. Creating special memories, Candace and her late husband Thomas enjoyed traveling to antique car shows in their restored Triumph convertible.
Candace will be remembered for her kind heart, unwavering dedication to others, and infectious laughter. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
She is survived by her loving children, Mr. Thomas Streams, and Mrs. Stacie Garcia (nee Streams), grandson Mr. Gage Streams, and loving siblings that are a significant part of her extended family and friends who will miss her dearly. Her late husband, Thomas, pre-deceased her in death.
A celebration of Candace’s life will be held at Grace Church, Indiana on Friday June 7th, 2024. Visitation starts at 10:00 am with the service beginning at 11:00 am followed by light refreshments. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Church, 712 Church St. in her loving memory.
Rest in peace, dear Candace. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts forever.
Arrangements are with Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory of Indiana.
Online condolences may be made by visiting: rbfh.net .
