Candice Jo “C.J.” Michael 

June 14, 1957 – May 12, 2026

Candice Jo “C.J.” Michael, of Silverthorne, Colorado, beloved sister, aunt, teacher, mentor, traveler, skier, and friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 12, 2026, due to heart complications. She was 68 years old.

C.J. was born on June 14, 1957. She was preceded in death by her mother, Sally Jo Schwyhart, and her father, Wayne Edward Michael.

She is survived by her brother, Robert L. Michael; her sister-in-law, Susan Stokes; her three nieces, Anja, Emily, and Heather; and her sister, Susan “Sam” Michael, all of whom loved her dearly.

In 1972, C.J. moved to Missoula, Montana, and later to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in 1974, where she attended Augustana College. She graduated in 1979 with a degree in Business Education and a minor in Business Administration.

Following graduation, C.J. began her teaching career in Rawlins, Wyoming. In 1982, she returned to Colorado and began teaching at Clear Creek Secondary School, where she remained until her retirement on June 2, 2009. Throughout her career, C.J. touched the lives of countless students. She was far more than a teacher — she was a mentor, a source of encouragement, a trusted listener, and often a guiding light during difficult times. The depth of her impact is something truly understood by the many students whose lives she changed forever.

Throughout her adult life, C.J. was known for her incredible work ethic and determination. She often worked two jobs — and sometimes more — to support herself, always with the goal of being able to retire young and fully enjoy life’s adventures. Through discipline, hard work, and careful planning, she achieved that dream and embraced retirement with the same passion and energy she brought to everything she did.

Outside the classroom, C.J. embraced life with passion and joy. She became a Copper Ambassador, sharing her love of skiing and the mountains with others. Summers were spent golfing, working as a starter at Raven Golf Club and other golf courses throughout the Denver area, and enjoying many ladies golf leagues and lifelong friendships.

Travel was one of C.J.’s greatest passions. She explored nearly every continent, often more than once, creating unforgettable adventures and friendships around the world. In some years, she spent nearly 150 days traveling, embracing new cultures, experiences, and friendships wherever her journeys took her. Antarctica remained the one journey still on her list — a trip she had planned but was unfortunately never able to take.

C.J. had a rare gift for making people feel seen, heard, supported, and loved. She spread kindness everywhere she went, offering friendship, laughter, encouragement, and compassion to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her warmth and generosity touched more lives than she likely ever realized.

Honoring C.J.’s wishes, there will be no formal services or ceremonies. Those who wish to remember her are encouraged to honor her memory by sharing kindness with others, embracing adventure, supporting a friend in need, or simply enjoying the beauty of the mountains, the golf course, or the journey wherever life may lead.

Her spirit, love, and light will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.