Candace Charlotte Shade (Niitsii’tahp’ihs’ta’yakii – Lone Diving Woman) was born September 2, 1982, and passed away on April 17, 2026 in Lethbridge, Alberta at the age of 43. Candace is survived by her husband Ivan; children Blaze, Taylor, and Gary; father Arthur “Rex” Plume; father in law Edward Baptiste; adopted parents Sharon Mountain Horse, Donna Many Fingers, Charlene Plume and Roger Prairie Chicken, Barry Shade, & Harrison Shade; adopted daughters Haley (Tryce), Montana (Jace), Dikki (Sean), Chynell (Jared), Kesse, Mataya; adopted sons Sage, Colton (Jay), Wyatt; adopted grandson Tealyn; sisters Trina (Buck), Corrine (David), Tammy, Wacey, Jobi, Dorothy (Clay), Kate; brothers Shawn (Liz), Kevin, Todd, Bryan Bottle, J.J. (Susan), Willie (Jasmine), Cameron (Melissa), Blair, John (Alexandra), Charles (Stephani), Terrance, & Michael; aunties Mae Singer, Ruby Bottle, Joanne Twigg, Harriet (Leroy) Heavy Runner, Lucy Russell, Deana Plume, Jacqueline Plume, Patty (Evans) Shade, Colleen Crowchild; uncles Clifford Butch Plume, Jim (Darlene), Hank (Evelyn), Donald (Sassy), Barney (Sam), Wilton (Trina), Floyd (Ethel), Arnold (Bianca), Dexter (Ann); nieces and nephews Parker, Jameson, Derozen, Arthur, Brooklyn, Kamri, Sierra, Chayton, Kasen, Callie, Zukai, Hayze, & Renley Shade, Cubbie, Chloe, & Cadence Fox, Rose, Junior, & Jordan Spotted Eagle, Ryder, Connor & Caspien Mountain Horse, & Meddrix, Zirus, & Ruben CSHW, Kya Many Fingers.
Candace was predeceased by mother Marilyn Shade; adopted parents Ervin and Christine Shade, Ronnie Shade, Cynthia Shade, Bernerd and Rita Tallman; adopted sons Austin Shade, Dustin Scout; brothers Tyson Shade, Clay Plume; sisters Karen Spear Chief, Jocelyn Panther Bone; uncles Camille Russell, Frederick Heavy Runner, John Heavy Runner, Frank Turning Robe, Bill Heavy Runner, Chester Heavy Runner, Lester Heavy Runner, Andy Heavy Runner, Andrew Twigg, Stephen Heavy Runner; aunties Alvine Shade, Lucy Day Chief, Eileen Mountain Horse, Pearl (Cullen) Heavy Runner, Mary Twigg, Patsy Mountain Horse, Rhoda Four Horns; maternal grandparents Harry and Agnes Shade and Billy Sr. Heavy Runner and Mariam Crying Head; paternal grandparents Dean and Theresa Plume, Laurie and Minnie Plume; nieces Makai Shade, Chelsie Shade; cousins Wayna Beebe.
Candace had many family members from the Shades, Heavy Runners, Plumes, Twiggs – the family apologizes for any names missed.
Candace was born on September 2, 1982 in Magrath, Alberta to Marilyn Shade and Rex Plume. At around 6 months old, Ervie moved Candace’s crib in his and Christine’s room and told her they were going to raise her. This is how Candace became a Minipoka.
Due to a childhood illness, she frequently travelled with Ervie and Christine to Heartbutte to attend ceremonies with the late John Day Rider. Later, when she no longer wished to go to the ceremonies, she was cared for by her babysitters: Ish Heavy Runner, Christal Singer, Theresa Russell, and Corrine. They would argue who was going to change her diapers, but in the end, they got it done with many laughs. It was in John’s sweat where she received her Indian name. She fully recovered from her illness and began her life as a Kipitaapoka.
Candace grew up with Tyson, Lacey, Kate, and Jobi. Candace and Jobi were inseparable. They were known as the Bullhorn Brats–if you saw one, you knew the others were close by. There were constant sleepovers at Uncle Ervin’s, Uncle Barry’s, Uncle Don’s, and Auntie Patty’s. During a visit to Auntie’s, Jobi was getting her hair up in rollers. Candace asked Tyson, “Do you want your hair curled?” And Tyson responded, “tsssssaa, I’m not a woman yet!” One adventure included Tyson and Candace going on a bike ride, Candace peddling as fast as she could and Tyson running alongside holding handle bars with a wheel attached because he couldn’t ride a bike yet. There are so many other stories to share, but we would probably have to censor most of them.
Candace briefly attended Cardston High School before transferring to Kainai High School, attending between 1997 and 2000. In 2004, Candace was a UCEPP student at Red Crow College, transferring to the University of Lethbridge in 2006. She was a scholar and curious mind, so naturally, she tried a few programs: Nursing, Business Management, Niitsitapi Business Admin. Certificate, and finally, working on her Bachelor of Arts with a major in Indigenous Governance. But Candace was always passionate about teaching and shaping young minds.
She worked at Ninastako Day Care and Kainaipokaiksi Day Care. She worked at Kainaipokaiksi as a Level 1 worker. She later obtained her Level 2 childcare course at BTEST in collaboration with Bow Valley College. She did her training in Pincher Creek Day Care.
On a trip to Waterton opening, Candace met the love of her life, Ivan. At first, they thought Ivan was a white guy hanging out with the natives partying in Waterton, so they kept calling him a Hutterite. She fell in love very fast, but she was also very shy about having a boyfriend. After her and Ivan’s first encounter, Candace and her friends were constantly in Brocket. Ivan became her best friend and life partner, there was no Candace without her Ivan. Their boys are a perfect mix of both of them. They did everything together, from getting Ervie and Christine ready for their bundle openings, setting up their Akokatsinn camp, learning Christine’s recipes, working with Ervie and Winston’s Aayaksima therapeutic riding program, to eventually becoming Ervin and Christine’s caregivers. She and Ivan have been together for 28 years. Their relationship was one that endured through thick and thin. Together, they showed what loyalty, commitment, and true partnership looked like, leaving behind a bond that will always be remembered.
In June 2000, Candace and Ivan welcomed Keon Arron Blaze Shade. Her already strong maternal instincts as an aunt went into overdrive for her first born, and the whole family was very excited! Jobi was the first one Candace told about Blaze, she became his godmother. Everyone always fought to have time with Blazie, but Candace was very protective over her baby. Then came Taylor Jordan Ryan Nail Shade in January 2014. Taylor, so much like his dad Ivan, had a personality that could keep her on her toes. And eventually came Jesse Jamie Charles Gary Shade in November 2016. Gary was her mini me in every way, quick with a comeback and full of her signature wit. They both knew how to push her buttons and drive her crazy at times, but they were her special boys. Everything she did was for them, and her love for them was fierce, unconditional, and neverending. Candace cherished her girls, Haley and Chynell “Nellie,” always referring to them as “My Girls.” Their bond radiated warmth, laughter, and unwavering support, visible to everyone who knew them. With genuine pride, Candace celebrated their achievements, stood by them through life’s challenges, and offered gentle, thoughtful guidance at every turn. Her presence in their lives and their children was a constant source of love and encouragement.
In August 2000, Ervin and Christine were transferred Ponokaomitaayaahkoyinni-manni with Candace, who was transferred the top knot, and Dikki, who was transferred the tripod. Each year at the Sundance, she thoughtfully set up her camp, ensuring the Shade family always had a welcoming place to gather and visit. Her helpful spirit shone through as she looked after Corrine and David, making sure they were always well fed and cared for. She also provided the utmost care and encouragement to Montana and Jace, supporting them wholeheartedly.
Candace had a special relationship with her aunties and uncles. When she was still little, she developed a fear of Uncle Hank. Every time Hank would see her, he would grab her and she would scream and cry. As she became older, she eventually got over her fear. Growing up with Kate, she got very close to Don and Sassy. They took her everywhere, even later in life working alongside Sassy everyday. In addition, Candace became close to Harrison and Cynthia, & their girls, Marlene, Tammy and Susan.
Candace was also very close with Barry and Ronnie because of her relationship with Tyson. When Ervie passed away, Candace brought a pair of Ervie’s moccasins to Barry and asked him if he could fill his role as a father. From that moment on, Candace cared for Barry, preparing special meals and always looking out for him. She had always been the daughter Barry never had and a cherished baby sister to the Shade boys, she loved the bucking horses as much they did. Candace carried on Christine’s traditions—making sure the boys were always well fed at rodeos and brandings, and looking after them in everything they did. She was truly one of the boys, seamlessly blending care with camaraderie. Candace shared a special bond with each of the boys, specifically Kevin and Shawn. Through her connection with Shawn, she grew especially close to his children—Sage, Dustin, Montana, Colton, Kesse, and Mataya. She became a pillar in their lives and a second mother to each of them. Candace was a constant presence in Sage and Montana’s daily lives, supporting them through hardships and celebrating their joys as their most trusted confidant. She cared for their children just as deeply, extending her love to the next generation. Candace was Tealyn’s favourite person; he often called her “aunty g-ma” or “grandma,” and she affectionately called him “baby.” In Candace’s eyes, Tealyn could do no wrong.
Many of her students remember her as a fun and kind teacher, always going above and beyond for her kids. Candace often saw her many nieces and nephews in the hall and they all recall fond memories of teacher auntie Candace. She would even offer the kids rides to school. If any of the kids missed a day, she would always send us their homework–the kids sure loved that. KBE and Saypoyi were a significant part of Candace’s life, her colleagues became friends and sisters.
Candace enjoyed hosting birthdays for her many nieces and nephews. After every birthday, she always made sure we saved pieces of cake to bring up to Shade cemetery–she always thought of our loved ones. She was a very involved auntie, and many of the kids considered her a second mom. Candace was a big advocate of education, she was very involved in helping her kids get to the next level of their journey. She always had her home open for help with homework, including much of Chynell’s science and statistics coursework. She was very proud of her kids, especially when Blaze graduated high school and went on to attend Lethbridge College. She was even considering moving with Blaze to Lethbridge to help him transition into college life. During the pandemic, she was constantly teaching all the little Bullhorn brats how to read.
Candace would keep the entire Shade colony connected through her bookie activities, organizing sports and playoffpools. Candace and Ivan were the ultimate Edmonton Oilers fans, even naming their children after their favorite players. Hockey season was always fun to witness in their home because of the Flames versus Oilers feud between Candace and Ervie.
Candace was an integral part of the Mountain Horse/Bottle family, always close to us and everyone at the hall. Whether it was visiting for celebrations or joining Sunday potlucks, she and her little family were always there. She loved playing cards during our game nights, and she eagerly participated in planning summer activities. Even though ceremonies weren’t her favorite, she would often ask, “What do I need to bring?” to lend a helping hand. Her favorite season was autumn, especially October when she hosted Halloween movie nights filled with laughter, often with our brother Shawn Singer visiting, which guaranteed non-stop fun. Her radiant smile brightened our days, and she never missed an opportunity to express her love. BBQs were another highlight, with her and Ivan bringing delicious food that no one ever forgot. She was deeply cherished by all of us, and while everyone has their own stories with her. The Mountain Horse/Bottle Family hold onto the precious memories of how she touched our lives and how we showed our love in return. Celebrations at the hall were always lively, and she was there, sharing in the laughter and joy, reminding us that she was a constant presence in our hearts.
Candace was dependable and strong, a glue to many of her families. She never forgot a birthday. She never missed an exciting or important event. Everything she did was for her family, especially her boys. Blaze, Taylor, Gary, and Ivan were Candace’s reason for living. She did everything in her power to make sure her boys had the best life. She was always taking the boys on trips, comic conventions, weekend hotel stays to swim, and always invested in their interests. Each of her boys carries a unique characteristic of their mom. She was always ready to help the Shade boys at every branding. Because of this, her boys got to enjoy the corral experience us Bullhorn kids know and love. She gave so much to anyone who needed help, her brothers and family will greatly miss her presence this branding season.
Candace had an adventurous spirit and could talk anyone into doing something out of the box. We will never forget that crazy giggle when she was up to something. We will miss her kind spirit and loving ways.
A wake service will be at Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve, Alberta on Monday, April 27, 2026 from 7:00 - 11:00 pm. The Funeral service will also be held at Senator Gladstone Hall on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Shade Family Cemetery.
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Candace was predeceased by mother Marilyn Shade; adopted parents Ervin and Christine Shade, Ronnie Shade, Cynthia Shade, Bernerd and Rita Tallman; adopted sons Austin Shade, Dustin Scout; brothers Tyson Shade, Clay Plume; sisters Karen Spear Chief, Jocelyn Panther Bone; uncles Camille Russell, Frederick Heavy Runner, John Heavy Runner, Frank Turning Robe, Bill Heavy Runner, Chester Heavy Runner, Lester Heavy Runner, Andy Heavy Runner, Andrew Twigg, Stephen Heavy Runner; aunties Alvine Shade, Lucy Day Chief, Eileen Mountain Horse, Pearl (Cullen) Heavy Runner, Mary Twigg, Patsy Mountain Horse, Rhoda Four Horns; maternal grandparents Harry and Agnes Shade and Billy Sr. Heavy Runner and Mariam Crying Head; paternal grandparents Dean and Theresa Plume, Laurie and Minnie Plume; nieces Makai Shade, Chelsie Shade; cousins Wayna Beebe.
Candace had many family members from the Shades, Heavy Runners, Plumes, Twiggs – the family apologizes for any names missed.
Candace was born on September 2, 1982 in Magrath, Alberta to Marilyn Shade and Rex Plume. At around 6 months old, Ervie moved Candace’s crib in his and Christine’s room and told her they were going to raise her. This is how Candace became a Minipoka.
Due to a childhood illness, she frequently travelled with Ervie and Christine to Heartbutte to attend ceremonies with the late John Day Rider. Later, when she no longer wished to go to the ceremonies, she was cared for by her babysitters: Ish Heavy Runner, Christal Singer, Theresa Russell, and Corrine. They would argue who was going to change her diapers, but in the end, they got it done with many laughs. It was in John’s sweat where she received her Indian name. She fully recovered from her illness and began her life as a Kipitaapoka.
Candace grew up with Tyson, Lacey, Kate, and Jobi. Candace and Jobi were inseparable. They were known as the Bullhorn Brats–if you saw one, you knew the others were close by. There were constant sleepovers at Uncle Ervin’s, Uncle Barry’s, Uncle Don’s, and Auntie Patty’s. During a visit to Auntie’s, Jobi was getting her hair up in rollers. Candace asked Tyson, “Do you want your hair curled?” And Tyson responded, “tsssssaa, I’m not a woman yet!” One adventure included Tyson and Candace going on a bike ride, Candace peddling as fast as she could and Tyson running alongside holding handle bars with a wheel attached because he couldn’t ride a bike yet. There are so many other stories to share, but we would probably have to censor most of them.
Candace briefly attended Cardston High School before transferring to Kainai High School, attending between 1997 and 2000. In 2004, Candace was a UCEPP student at Red Crow College, transferring to the University of Lethbridge in 2006. She was a scholar and curious mind, so naturally, she tried a few programs: Nursing, Business Management, Niitsitapi Business Admin. Certificate, and finally, working on her Bachelor of Arts with a major in Indigenous Governance. But Candace was always passionate about teaching and shaping young minds.
She worked at Ninastako Day Care and Kainaipokaiksi Day Care. She worked at Kainaipokaiksi as a Level 1 worker. She later obtained her Level 2 childcare course at BTEST in collaboration with Bow Valley College. She did her training in Pincher Creek Day Care.
On a trip to Waterton opening, Candace met the love of her life, Ivan. At first, they thought Ivan was a white guy hanging out with the natives partying in Waterton, so they kept calling him a Hutterite. She fell in love very fast, but she was also very shy about having a boyfriend. After her and Ivan’s first encounter, Candace and her friends were constantly in Brocket. Ivan became her best friend and life partner, there was no Candace without her Ivan. Their boys are a perfect mix of both of them. They did everything together, from getting Ervie and Christine ready for their bundle openings, setting up their Akokatsinn camp, learning Christine’s recipes, working with Ervie and Winston’s Aayaksima therapeutic riding program, to eventually becoming Ervin and Christine’s caregivers. She and Ivan have been together for 28 years. Their relationship was one that endured through thick and thin. Together, they showed what loyalty, commitment, and true partnership looked like, leaving behind a bond that will always be remembered.
In June 2000, Candace and Ivan welcomed Keon Arron Blaze Shade. Her already strong maternal instincts as an aunt went into overdrive for her first born, and the whole family was very excited! Jobi was the first one Candace told about Blaze, she became his godmother. Everyone always fought to have time with Blazie, but Candace was very protective over her baby. Then came Taylor Jordan Ryan Nail Shade in January 2014. Taylor, so much like his dad Ivan, had a personality that could keep her on her toes. And eventually came Jesse Jamie Charles Gary Shade in November 2016. Gary was her mini me in every way, quick with a comeback and full of her signature wit. They both knew how to push her buttons and drive her crazy at times, but they were her special boys. Everything she did was for them, and her love for them was fierce, unconditional, and neverending. Candace cherished her girls, Haley and Chynell “Nellie,” always referring to them as “My Girls.” Their bond radiated warmth, laughter, and unwavering support, visible to everyone who knew them. With genuine pride, Candace celebrated their achievements, stood by them through life’s challenges, and offered gentle, thoughtful guidance at every turn. Her presence in their lives and their children was a constant source of love and encouragement.
In August 2000, Ervin and Christine were transferred Ponokaomitaayaahkoyinni-manni with Candace, who was transferred the top knot, and Dikki, who was transferred the tripod. Each year at the Sundance, she thoughtfully set up her camp, ensuring the Shade family always had a welcoming place to gather and visit. Her helpful spirit shone through as she looked after Corrine and David, making sure they were always well fed and cared for. She also provided the utmost care and encouragement to Montana and Jace, supporting them wholeheartedly.
Candace had a special relationship with her aunties and uncles. When she was still little, she developed a fear of Uncle Hank. Every time Hank would see her, he would grab her and she would scream and cry. As she became older, she eventually got over her fear. Growing up with Kate, she got very close to Don and Sassy. They took her everywhere, even later in life working alongside Sassy everyday. In addition, Candace became close to Harrison and Cynthia, & their girls, Marlene, Tammy and Susan.
Candace was also very close with Barry and Ronnie because of her relationship with Tyson. When Ervie passed away, Candace brought a pair of Ervie’s moccasins to Barry and asked him if he could fill his role as a father. From that moment on, Candace cared for Barry, preparing special meals and always looking out for him. She had always been the daughter Barry never had and a cherished baby sister to the Shade boys, she loved the bucking horses as much they did. Candace carried on Christine’s traditions—making sure the boys were always well fed at rodeos and brandings, and looking after them in everything they did. She was truly one of the boys, seamlessly blending care with camaraderie. Candace shared a special bond with each of the boys, specifically Kevin and Shawn. Through her connection with Shawn, she grew especially close to his children—Sage, Dustin, Montana, Colton, Kesse, and Mataya. She became a pillar in their lives and a second mother to each of them. Candace was a constant presence in Sage and Montana’s daily lives, supporting them through hardships and celebrating their joys as their most trusted confidant. She cared for their children just as deeply, extending her love to the next generation. Candace was Tealyn’s favourite person; he often called her “aunty g-ma” or “grandma,” and she affectionately called him “baby.” In Candace’s eyes, Tealyn could do no wrong.
Many of her students remember her as a fun and kind teacher, always going above and beyond for her kids. Candace often saw her many nieces and nephews in the hall and they all recall fond memories of teacher auntie Candace. She would even offer the kids rides to school. If any of the kids missed a day, she would always send us their homework–the kids sure loved that. KBE and Saypoyi were a significant part of Candace’s life, her colleagues became friends and sisters.
Candace enjoyed hosting birthdays for her many nieces and nephews. After every birthday, she always made sure we saved pieces of cake to bring up to Shade cemetery–she always thought of our loved ones. She was a very involved auntie, and many of the kids considered her a second mom. Candace was a big advocate of education, she was very involved in helping her kids get to the next level of their journey. She always had her home open for help with homework, including much of Chynell’s science and statistics coursework. She was very proud of her kids, especially when Blaze graduated high school and went on to attend Lethbridge College. She was even considering moving with Blaze to Lethbridge to help him transition into college life. During the pandemic, she was constantly teaching all the little Bullhorn brats how to read.
Candace would keep the entire Shade colony connected through her bookie activities, organizing sports and playoffpools. Candace and Ivan were the ultimate Edmonton Oilers fans, even naming their children after their favorite players. Hockey season was always fun to witness in their home because of the Flames versus Oilers feud between Candace and Ervie.
Candace was an integral part of the Mountain Horse/Bottle family, always close to us and everyone at the hall. Whether it was visiting for celebrations or joining Sunday potlucks, she and her little family were always there. She loved playing cards during our game nights, and she eagerly participated in planning summer activities. Even though ceremonies weren’t her favorite, she would often ask, “What do I need to bring?” to lend a helping hand. Her favorite season was autumn, especially October when she hosted Halloween movie nights filled with laughter, often with our brother Shawn Singer visiting, which guaranteed non-stop fun. Her radiant smile brightened our days, and she never missed an opportunity to express her love. BBQs were another highlight, with her and Ivan bringing delicious food that no one ever forgot. She was deeply cherished by all of us, and while everyone has their own stories with her. The Mountain Horse/Bottle Family hold onto the precious memories of how she touched our lives and how we showed our love in return. Celebrations at the hall were always lively, and she was there, sharing in the laughter and joy, reminding us that she was a constant presence in our hearts.
Candace was dependable and strong, a glue to many of her families. She never forgot a birthday. She never missed an exciting or important event. Everything she did was for her family, especially her boys. Blaze, Taylor, Gary, and Ivan were Candace’s reason for living. She did everything in her power to make sure her boys had the best life. She was always taking the boys on trips, comic conventions, weekend hotel stays to swim, and always invested in their interests. Each of her boys carries a unique characteristic of their mom. She was always ready to help the Shade boys at every branding. Because of this, her boys got to enjoy the corral experience us Bullhorn kids know and love. She gave so much to anyone who needed help, her brothers and family will greatly miss her presence this branding season.
Candace had an adventurous spirit and could talk anyone into doing something out of the box. We will never forget that crazy giggle when she was up to something. We will miss her kind spirit and loving ways.
A wake service will be at Senator Gladstone Hall, Blood Reserve, Alberta on Monday, April 27, 2026 from 7:00 - 11:00 pm. The Funeral service will also be held at Senator Gladstone Hall on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Shade Family Cemetery.
Click to Send Condolences to the Family