Candice Diane Brodel

On August 27, 1948 in Dallas, Texas, the world was graced with a sweet southern gal, lovingly and quite fittingly known as Candy. She was welcomed into the world by her parents Bill and Jeanne Covey and older sister Karen. Candy lived each day intentionally choosing to see the best in every person and situation, until she passed peacefully surrounded by family on April 16th. We can only imagine the awe and wonder she experienced when she embraced the splendor of heaven.

She lovingly reflected on her childhood days as having the best of friends and the most wonderful parents a child could ask for. The family lived in Texas, Utah, New Mexico, Wyoming and Idaho before they settled in Grand Junction in 1957. Spending summers with her grandparents in Texas became one of her most fond memories, sparking her passion for family history. Candy was a Grand Junction High School class of 1966 graduate. With a twinkle in her eye, she convinced her grandkids that she was valedictorian and head cheerleader! She met and married the love of her life, Rick Brodel, and together they settled in Hotchkiss, where they raised their daughters, Jenny and Stacey. With her cheerleading spirit still intact, she became the girls’ number one fan, making signs, pompoms and noise makers, accompanied by her loud whistle. She was always there to cheer on their every accomplishment and would later do the same for her grandchildren.

She spent the next 40 years of her life working in the Brodel family business, Farmer Franks. She started in the clothing store working with her sister-in-law and finished her career working with Rick for the final 11 years in the shoe store. She was adored by the loyal customers that came to do their shopping over her decades of friendly and attentive service, making many lifelong friends along the way. During those years, she found great joy in spending time with friends and family-especially her precious grandchildren-gardening, fishing, boating, cheering on the Broncos and taking road trips; enjoying her final vacation a month before passing.

Following retirement, she and Rick loved traveling and exploring together. Candy was always tickled pink whenever she had the chance to stop at a casino and play the slots along the way! Rick and Candy were enjoying retirement until Rick’s passing in 2021. Candy’s deep love for him remained constant as she navigated life without him, finding comfort in the company of family, enjoying bingo with treasured friends, and hosting weekly girls’ night with dear friends.

Candy’s magnetic personality drew people to her, to know her was to love her; whether it was a clerk at the grocery store, a receptionist, nurse or a stranger walking by, she was genuinely kind to everyone and made friends wherever she went . Her friends and family marveled at the love and kindness she so effortlessly sprinkled into every moment. She was known for handing out party beads to make even the most mundane event special and she loved decorating for every holiday and family celebration. She found joy in simple things, had a childlike curiosity and was one of the most generous souls you would ever meet. When asked what she would like to be remembered by, she said, “most importantly, I hope they would remember how I loved and treasured my family and how important it is to be a loyal and thoughtful friend.” She faced adversity courageously, displaying a deep faith and trust in the Lord, inspiring all who knew her. While she will be deeply missed, her family is committed to honoring her by paying it forward and living life with the same love, generosity and joy she showed to others.

Candy is survived by her sister Karen Hunt (GJ); daughter Jenny (Steve) Day of Cave Creek, AZ; daughter Stacey (Brad) Cummins of Grand Junction; grandchildren Tyler (Cassie) Day of Parker; Ryan (Lauren) Day of Tomball, TX; Bailee Campbell of Greeley; Cloey Campbell of Denver; Cole Cummins, Jessica (Mike) Derryberry and Chris Cummins all of Grand Junction. Candy was preceded in death by her parents and beloved husband Rick of 49 years.

A special celebration of Candy’s life will be held on June 7th at 10:00 a.m. at Canyon View Vineyard Church. Bright colors or sparkly clothing requested. In lieu of flowers, Candy would be honored if memorial donations were made to KidsAid or HopeWest Hospice.