Mary Kathleen "Kathy" McCandless, 62, of Mexico, passed away on Thursday, September 23, 2021, at Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 28, from 5-7 p.m. at Arnold Funeral Home.

Kathy was born on April 20, 1959 in Sedalia, the daughter of Victor and Reva Mae (Grosvenor) Ditzfeld.

Kathy, while being a divorced, single mother of two young children, went back to school and finally earned her college degree. She then went on to become a proud, successful, and beloved State of Missouri employee where she spent all her professional years before retirement. She threw her heart and soul into her work that she enjoyed so much. She was extremely and deeply proud of everything she accomplished.

Kathy, also affectionately known as "Mac", was a supporter of the American Cancer Society and was heavily involved with the Relay For Life and all the associated fundraisers and activities. Kathy loved to laugh and make others laugh with her. She had an infectious laugh that would spread to everyone that heard.

Kathy never hesitated to help a friend in need. Once she was a friend, she was always a friend. She had a passion for traveling and only had a handful of states left she wanted to visit. She loved collecting animal trinkets of all shapes, sizes, and colors. However, she had a soft spot and special liking for frogs and swans. In more recent years, she started to collect beautiful porcelain dolls.

Survivors include one daughter, Danah (Corey) O'Connor of Mexico; one son, Curtis (Alli) McCandless of Mexico; one grandchild, Kaysen McCandless; two brothers, Larry (Cindy) Ditzfeld of Sedalia and Wesley Ditzfeld of Sedalia; and several nieces, nephews and other family members.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Vicky Ditzfeld and Nancy Stucker.

Kathy was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, colleague, and friend. She will forever be missed. In loving memory.

Memorial donations may be made to Relay for Life. They may be sent in care of Arnold Funeral Home, 425 S. Jefferson, Mexico, MO 65265.