Candace "Candy" Rae Clausen, age 67, of Tipton, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family. In accordance with Candy’s wishes, she did not want a public service, but instead simply wanted you to spend your time with the people you love. A private family graveside service will be held in Oakdale Cemetery, Wilton. Online condolences may be left atwww.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Candy was born on May 31, 1958, in Davenport, the daughter of Henry and Janet (Schneekloth) Carstens. She graduated from Wilton High School with the Class of 1976 and later attended Terri’s Dog Grooming School in Davenport.
Candy owned and operated Candy’s Dog Grooming in Wilton for 10 years, where she combined her talent, patience, and love for animals. She later worked at HON in Muscatine as an assembler for 12 years before medically retiring in 2018.
Her love for animals extended beyond her work. Candy bred cocker spaniels and grew up riding horses, passions that stayed with her throughout her life. She cherished the outdoors and especially enjoyed camping trips and water skiing. Candy enjoyed flower gardening, and her yard reflected the care she gave to everything she touched.
Above all, Candy treasured time with her family. Holidays were especially meaningful, filled with laughter and card games - particularly Pitch. She was generous to a fault and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Candy will be remembered for her kind heart, her love of animals and nature, and the warmth she brought to her family and friends’ lives.
Candy will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Jennie Clausen and her husband, Ryder Houck of Bettendorf; a sister, Connie (Dan) Fratzke of Durant; five grandchildren, Caitlin (Cameron Ganzer) Crane, Taylor Crane, Xander (Alyssa Digney) Crane; Gavin Houck and Alexandra Houck; two great-granddaughters, Paisley and Saylor Ganzer; two nephews, Nathan and Jacob Fratzke; a half-sister, Betty Lopez; sister-in-law, Mary Carstens; and her special friend, Billy Wallace.
Candy was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Janet Carstens; a son, Robert "Bobby" Crane; one granddaughter, Charity Crane; a brother, Lanny Carstens; and a half-sister, Edith Revelle.
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