Candace Bartow

Candace J. Bartow, devoted wife, mother, public servant, and community advocate, passed away on July 7th, 2025 in Grants Pass, Oregon. She was 73.

Born on October 10, 1951, in Alhambra, California, Candace was the third child of Kenneth L. Simensen and Barbara L. Simensen. As the daughter of an Air Force Service Officer, she spent much of her youth traveling with her family internationally and across the county.. She shared a close bond with her three siblings: Rex Simensen, Randal Simensen, and Jan Davis.

Candace graduated from Grants Pass High School in 1969 and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation from the University of Oregon in 1974. That same year, she met Bruce Bartow. They married in January 1975 and began a life together rooted in love, service, and community. After a brief time in The Dalles, the couple moved to Grants Pass in 1977 — the community they would call home for the rest of their lives. A year later, they joyfully welcomed their daughter into the world—an event that would become one of the greatest joys of Candace’s life.

Candace’s legacy in Grants Pass is one of leadership, compassion, and civic engagement. Her career began as Recreation Coordinator for the City of Grants Pass. She later chose to be a full-time mother before entering public service, serving seven years on the Grants Pass City Council. In 1989, she was elected the second female Mayor of Grants Pass, serving until 1993.

As mayor, Candace created the Women’s Crisis Center, initiated the city’s Tree City USA program, and helped establish a sister city relationship with Rubtsovsk, Russia — even leading the first delegation to visit. She also served as President of the League of Oregon Cities in 1991–1992.

Her leadership continued through nonprofit and volunteer work, including serving as Executive Director of the Winema Girl Scout Council, involvement with the Community Development Corporation and the Oregon Community Foundation, and as a longtime Girl Scout troop leader — guiding and inspiring young women for decades.

Candace will be remembered for her deep commitment to her community, her trailblazing leadership, and her unwavering love for her family.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Bruce Bartow; her daughter, Emily Bartow; her sister, Jan Davis; and many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Rex and Randal.

A celebration of life will be held on August 10th, 2025 at Reinhart Volunteer Park in Grants Pass at 11AM.. All are welcome to join in remembering and honoring Candace’s extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Women's Crisis Center or a local Girl Scout council — causes she championed throughout her life.

Please leave a memory of Candy in her Guestbook.