Johnny (John) McCandless, 76, of Filer, Idaho was victorious over dementia when he went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 21, 2018. He is survived by his wife Andrea of 53 years, daughter Susan (sp. Steve Downey), son Steve (sp. Kathy), mother Ima Mae (McCandless) Bluteau, step-father Hubert Bluteau, brother Jay (sp. Jan), sister Kathy (sp. Dick Storro), and grandchildren Carlos, Chelsea, Derrick, Ally, and AJ, and many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.
John was born on November 8, 1941, in Castleford, Idaho and grew up farming in Filer with his dad and best friend, Wayne McCandless. He also was employed as an accountant for WDB Inc. He graduated from Filer High School in 1960 where he developed his passion for basketball. He continued to play and stay involved in basketball until the end of his life. One of John's greatest joys was playing with and watching his kids and grandchildren play sports. He was the primary reason for his kid's love of the game. He attended the University of Idaho and Santa Ana College.
John was extremely patriotic. He served in the United States Air Force from 1963-67. He earned multiple awards, including U.S. Air Force Commendation Medal while serving at Iraklion Air Station, Crete. He was also decorated for meritorious service as an accounting specialist at Offuitt AFB, Nebr. He was very proud of his military service and has always been a large supporter of the military.
John was a member of the Twin Falls Reformed Church. He served in various capacities including Deacon. He was an integral part in starting, organizing, and leading the Men's Ministry. He was also a member of the Kiwanis, Filer Booster Club, Filer Recreation Board, Filer American Legion, and the Buhl Co-op. John was also very involved in Filer Alumni and organizing and facilitating reunions. Relationships were very important to John. He spent much of his time following up and keeping up with friends and family.
John is preceded in death by his dad B. Wayne McCandless and infant brother Bernice Wayne Jr.
A celebration of John's life, with Military Honors, will be held on Saturday, Jan 27, at 2:00pm at Twin Falls Reformed Church; 1631 Grandview Drive North (Corner of Pole Line/Grandview), Twin Falls, Idaho. A special thank you to Auburn Crest Hospice and Alpine Manor Assisted Living for their loving care. Also, thank you to Rosenau Funeral Home for all arrangements.
John will be laid to rest at the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Eagle, Idaho at a later date.
Memorial donations can be made to the Twin Falls Reformed Church building fund or Men's Ministry.
Family and friends are encouraged to share their memories at www.rosenaufuneralhome.com