Candice Anne Appleby

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Candice Anne Appleby of Victoria, B.C. She passed away peacefully at the age of 68 years old on October 3, 2025, at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria surrounded by her family.

Candice was predeceased by her husband Bob, father Roy, and brother Leon. She is survived by her stepdaughter Cheyanne; foster son Rob; Mother Marlene; sisters Cindy (Lorne), Holly (Rob), and Heather (Nathan); brothers Doug, Jack (Shannon), Jim (Pam), and Ted; numerous nieces and nephews.

Candice was born in Regina Saskatchewan, the second oldest child in the Appleby family. She had incredible musical abilities and growing up she provided the soundtrack for the Appleby family life. She shined on the piano but could play any instrument she set her mind to. Candice listened to music with the perspective of creating more. It was only at the end of her life when she was serenaded to the angels by her family that she smiled with peace and understood and acknowledged the impact her music had on anyone that was blessed to have heard her.

As an adult, Candice led a vibrant and multifaceted life as a music teacher, musician, stage actress, entrepreneur, foster mother, volunteer for many non-profit organizations and executive.

She began teaching piano at the age of twelve. At 15, she earned her real estate licence. Over the years, she owned a car detailing shop, a music store, and a fishing resort. She was a devoted foster mother.

In 2004, Candice became Executive Director of the BC Small-Scale Food Processor Association (SSFPA), a role she held until her passing. Under her leadership, SSFPA grew into a nationally respected organization supporting small and medium-sized food processors. She developed programs for start-ups and scale-ups, advocated at all levels of government, and was a trusted advisor to universities and policymakers. In 2021, she was named runner-up for Non-Profit Leader by BC Business. Her colleagues described her as “smart as anyone I have ever met.”

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Victoria Jubilee Hospital and Oak Bay Community Health Services for their compassionate care.

Donations can be made in Candice’s memory to the Cowichan Hospice Society at https://www.cowichanhospice.org/

Memorial services details will be announced later.

Isaiah 54: Sing, O barren one who did not bear; burst into song and shout, you who have not been in labor! For the children of the desolate woman will be more than the children of her that is married, says the Lord.