JOHN CHARLES SPENCE

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JOHN CHARLES SPENCE August 11, 1921 May 8, 2006 It with great sadness we announce that our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather passed away Monday morning May 8, 2006 at the Seven Oaks Hospital at the age of 85. John is survived by daughters, Darlene Ashley, Juliette Cyr and son Wellington Spence; grandson Ken Cyr (Cindy); granddaughters, Sandra Seidel and Jen Urbanski (Rui); great-grandchildren Michael, Stephanie, Kristen, Cassidy, Rain and Jessie; sister Matilda Spence and family; brothers George, Walter, Wellington (Madeline), Henry (Lena), James (Gloria), Solomon; and numerous other family and friends from Nelson House, Thompson, Wabowden and Winnipeg. John was predeceased by his wife Jane Eva in 1987; parents Thomas Spence and Mary Anne Moose; son Edward Spence in 1993; sisters Christina Gossfeld, Mary Anne Spence and Juliette Pieroni; brother Louie Spence and many comrades. John was born in Nelson House, MB in 1921. He was sent to Brandon Residential School for numerous years. John enlisted in the Canadian Army in Brandon, service # H-75001. John served in the Second World War as a gunner in Canada, Britain and N.W. Europe until November 17, 1945. He was honourably discharged with medals and decorations 1939-45 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp and War Medal 1939-45. John was proud to have served his country. This was evident when he was invited to participate in Aboriginal Veteran's Day and Remembrance Day Services held at Nelson House. He was willing and honoured to be recognized for his sacrifice. Although John seldom mentioned the war, his grandchildren Ken and Sandra and others did hear some of the stories. Upon discharge, John resided with his sister Christina Gossfeld for many years. During this time, each of Tina's children grew attached to Uncle John. He was loved enormously and highly respected. Over the years he worked at the Manitoba Cold Storage, the Railway and Canada Post. In between these times John went back to Nelson House to reunite with his family members. In later years, daughter Darlene and her family lovingly cared for John. Prayers/ visitation will be held on Thursday, May 11 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, May 12 at 1:00 p.m. also at the chapel. Interment to follow in the Military Section at Brookside Cemetery. Silent memories will keep you near as time goes by. No longer in our lives to share but in our hearts you'll always be. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 11, 2006