Kandy Denise Nash

Kandy D. Nash, age 54, of Lakeville, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep on January 25, 2026, at her home.

Kandy was born on December 6, 1971, in Edina, Minnesota, to Joseph and Eleanor (Hansen) Carlisle. She was one of five children and grew up in Bloomington, where she became known for her athletic ability and friendly personality. Kandy loved sports and was skilled in everything she pursued. She was a captain in soccer, basketball, and fast-pitch softball, and her strong throwing arm on the softball field was well known. She was also crowned Homecoming Queen.

Kandy loved to dance and was often the first on the dance floor. She would often grab random strangers and pull them onto the dance floor just to get everyone moving. She enjoyed being around people and was known for her hugs, her smile, and her welcoming nature. She was easy to talk to and made others feel comfortable.

After graduating from Bloomington Kennedy High School, Kandy attended cosmetology school and began her professional life. She later worked in health risk management before becoming an optician, a career she remained in for many years.

At the age of 20, Kandy met Kevin Nash at the University of Minnesota, and they formed a lifelong partnership. They were married on September 20, 1997, and were blessed with two children, Kaitlyn in 1999 and Kyler in 2004. Kandy was devoted to her family and took great pride in being a mother.

Kandy and her family enjoyed traveling together to Florida, Arizona, and Hawaii, as well as spending time at their cabin on Lake Sylvia in South Haven, Minnesota. They played co-rec softball as a family and valued time spent together. Holidays and family gatherings were especially important to her.

She is survived by her husband, Kevin Nash; her children, Kaitlyn Nash and Kyler Nash; her siblings, Kimberly Carlisle and Hollie Carlisle; her nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She is also survived by her daughter’s dog, Daisy Mae, whom she loved very much.

Kandy was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Eleanor Carlisle; her sister, Cheryl Holsten; and her brother, Joe Carlisle.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel – Anderson Chapel in Apple Valley. Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., with the service beginning at 4:00 p.m.