Obituary of Candace F. Preller

Candace F. Preller, age 80, of Melbourne, FL, passed away on September 10, 2023. She was born on August 8, 1943, in Charleston, SC, to the late Nell Ward Fairbanks and Willis L. Fairbanks. Candace was a loving and passionate individual who deeply understood the importance of truly listening. She had a great sense of humor and could tell a corny "dad" joke with the best of them. Candace had a special love for animals, especially her dogs.

Candace is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Preller; daughter, Alesia Nicoli (Jeff); grandsons, Jordon and Tyler; sister, Deborah Sola (Vito Menzella); brother, Gary Fairbanks (Ann); nephew, Cory Fairbanks (Heather), and grandnieces, Marian and Lillian; nephew, Chris Fairbanks; stepson, David Preller (Marie); stepson, Peter Preller (Laurie); stepdaughter, Janice Bucca (Charlie); stepgrandsons, Nicholas, Kevin, Joseph, Brian, Dominic, Sierra, and Richie; and step-great-grandson, Kai. Candace was preceded in death by her mother, Nell Ward Fairbanks; father, Willis L. Fairbanks; and son, Justin Crouch.

Candace had a passion for traveling and took many trips over her lifetime. She also lived in many US states, France, and Germany as a child of the military. Candace loved dancing and enjoyed various styles throughout her life, from ballet in her childhood to beach/shag in her teens and later on, square/couples/line dancing. One of Alesia’s fondest early memories is of Candace, Justin, and her dancing in the living room, acting silly, and experiencing joy together.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, October 25, from 6-10 PM at Beckman-Williamson Funeral Home, 5400 Village Drive, Rockledge, FL 32955.

The funeral Mass will be on Thursday, October 26 at 11 AM at Saint John Evangelist Catholic Church, 5655 Stadium Parkway, Viera, FL 32940, followed by a Repast at the Parish Center next door.

A gravesite tribute at 2 PM will be at Florida Memorial Gardens, 5950 US Route 1 North, Rockledge, FL 32955.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Candace to the National Wildlife Federation, the Humane Society, or the Brevard Zoo. These organizations were dear to her heart, and she would have appreciated any support given. May Candace's memory be a blessing to all who knew her.