Marty A. McCandless, 68, of Petersburg, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024. He was born October 19, 1956, the son of James I. and Verajean “Louise” (Ray) McCandless. He married Shirley M. Darling on June 14, 1980, and she survives.
Also surviving are his daughters, Melissa McCandless (Joel Blair) of Lafayette, IN and Sarah (CJ) Oglesby of Springfield; step-grandson, Jack Oglesby; brother, Gary (Linda) McCandless of Springfield and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Marty was a lifelong musician. His musical career began when his parents bought his first clarinet in fifth grade. He went on to become a member of the Lanphier High School band. He then received an Associate’s degree from Lincoln Land Community College and a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Illinois State University. He was a member of the Lincoln Land jazz band and the ISU Big Red Marching Machine.
His teaching career began at Greenview High School in 1979. Then, he moved to the private sector and taught thousands of music lessons and worked at various music stores. Marty was also a member of the Springfield Municipal Band and played in various Springfield Muni Opera productions. In addition, Marty was the co-founder and lead saxophonist of the Chatford Orchestra. He also directed the Illinois College jazz ensemble. Marty always pushed his students to excel, and many earned top honors at IMEA and IHSA solo and ensemble contests. He was proud of all his students over the years, but nothing brought more joy than the musical accomplishments of his daughters.
Marty was a man of faith who was a member of the Oakford United Methodist Church. He was a resident of Menard Country for over 40 years. Marty will be greatly missed.
Visitation: 10:00 am – 11:00 am, Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.
Funeral Service: 11:00 am, Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Pastor Carol Stufflebeam officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to Oakford United Methodist Church or Helping Hands of Springfield.
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