Candace J. (Harman) Parker

Candace J. (Harman) Parker, age 42, of Metamora, Ohio, a cherished daughter, devoted mother, and compassionate nurse, passed away Sunday evening March 15, 2026, at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. Born on August 16, 1983, in Toledo, Ohio, to Guy and Catherine (Samson) Harman, Candace lived a life marked by courage, perseverance, and an unwavering positive spirit.

Candace’s early years were shaped by her battle as a chronic illness warrior since the tender age of two. Despite enduring relentless health challenges, she remained a beacon of strength and humor to all who knew her. Her journey was one of resilience, highlighted profoundly last May when she received the ultimate gift of life through a multi-visceral organ transplant at Henry Ford Hospital. Though she faced numerous complex complications afterward, Candace was embraced by the love of her family and friends in her final hours, finding peace in their presence.

A 2001 graduate of Southview High School and Owens Community College, Candace devoted seventeen years of her professional life as a registered nurse in the Pre-Op Department at The Toledo Hospital. Her nursing career was inspired with the same compassion and care that defined her character, touching countless lives with kindness and dedication. Those who worked alongside her remember her great sense of humor and the courage she carried, even in the most demanding moments.

Candace found joy beyond her career in many simple pleasures. An avid reader and gardening enthusiast, she treasured the time spent arranging flowers and engaging in crafts—activities that allowed her creativity to flourish. She also delighted in watching movies, especially Christmas movies and those on the Hallmark Channel. She loved collecting and wearing Christmas sweatshirts as well.

Above all, Candace’s greatest pride and joy were her children. Her son, Tyler Parker, and daughter, Hannah Parker, held a special place in her heart, and she loved taking them shopping and sharing moments of laughter and love. Alongside them in family warmth was her adopted son, Nick Stoll. Her love for family extended to her parents, Guy and Cathie Harman, and her sister, Hollie (Sam) Hendricks; special nephews, Kolin, Mason and Colten Hendricks, as well as to her special friends, Grant Stoll and Corie Carpenter, and many extended family members.

Candace’s paternal grandparents, Gerald and Helen Harman, and her maternal grandparents, Charles and Katie Samson, preceded her in death.

Candace is free from pain and suffering, her spirit now shining down upon us. It brings comfort to know she watches over her children and loved ones, the light of her courage and love forever guiding their paths.

Private graveside services will be held at Amboy Township Cemetery in Metamora, Ohio.

Memorial contributions may be made to the transplant program at Henry Ford Health, 1 Ford Place #5A, Detroit, MI 48202-3450 or to the Toledo Humane Society, 827 Illinois Ave., Maumee, OH 43537.