Candace Marie-Dawn Lepine

After a long courageous battle with cancer, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Candace Marie-Dawn Lepine on March 4th, 2026, at her residence in Portage la Prairie with her family by her side, at the age of 49 years old.

Left to cherish Candace’s memory is partner Deni Perchak of Portage La Prairie, her children; Justice Bryson, Calista Bryson and Katelyn Perchak, all from Portage la Prairie, her parents, Wendy Mack of Portage la Prairie and Garry (Judy) Lepine of Winnipeg, her In-Laws Pauline (Rene) Perchak of Portage la Prairie, as well as her siblings; Jason Lepine (Liana) of Winnipeg & daughters Kalynne of Portage La Prairie and Chantel of Winnipeg, Gary Lepine Jr. (Candice) of Portage la Prairie and Raymond Lepine (Joanne) & son, Caleb, of Newton, Mb.

She also leaves to mourn numerous relatives and friends.

Candace is predeceased by her step dad – Les Mack.

Candace was born and raised in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. She had 3 beautiful girls: Justice & Calista Bryson from her previous relationship with Erin Bryson and then had Katelyn Perchak, with her current partner Deni Perchak.

When Candace was young she enjoyed playing ringette, street hockey, and baseball. As she grew older her favorite pastime was fishing. She spent many hours down at the river with her partner, family and friends. This was her peaceful place. Candace also loved animals, right from a young age, owning many throughout her life. Candace loved to cook, not just for her own family but for many other families in need as well. She was very giving and did her best to help others.

Candace attended Victoria School, La Verendrye School and Portage Collegiate Institute growing up. She went directly into the workforce and worked at many different jobs, her latest job before she was unable to work due to health reasons was working in the hotel, food and beverage industry and homecare.

She was a stay at home mom who did her best to provide for her family, especially her beloved children.

Candace loved to sit around her kitchen table with family and close friends to listen to fiddle and country music while having her beverage of choice and a smoke. Candace really loved to dance, especially the two-step and waltzes.

Candace had a very close relationship with her mom, Wendy. Mom would visit Candy every day. They would make frequent trips to Walmart in Portage, prompting teasing from the family saying they must have shares in Walmart.

Candace had a heart of gold. She spread so much joy wherever she went. She had a tongue that also spoke the truth with a side of sass. She lived life on her terms. Her loud voice, laughter and energy will deeply be missed by all.

Candace we know you will continue to watch lovingly over your girls, their guardian angel. We wish all your days are spent down by the river with endless minnows and a bottomless catch bucket and spending the nights dancing away to your heart’s content.

We love you and miss you dearly. You are now at peace.

At Candace’s request, a private family viewing has taken place and there will be no funeral service.

We thank everyone who reached out to express their condolences in many ways. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made in Candace’s memory to Central Plains Cancer Services.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com