JOE SPENCE

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JOE (CECIL JOSEPH) SPENCE July 18, 1951 - January 26, 2003 Beloved member of the Spence and Ptasznik families, Joe died at home, in his own bed with family nearby, from pancreatic cancer. He was 51 years old. Joe will be deeply missed by his wife, of 30 years, Adele; children, Jessica and Stephen; mother Marion; brothers, Lindsay (Doris) in Surrey, B.C., Jock (Geraldine) in Fort Francis, and Sandy (Grace) sisters-in-law, Helen Ptasznik (Dan Haughey), Elizabeth Ptasznik (Paul Harland) and Shirley Steer (Larry) many wonderful nieces and nephews; and many other relatives, friends and co-workers. He was predeceased by his beloved son Nicholas and father Jack Spence. Joe was a graduate of Fine Arts (University of Manitoba). He felt extremely lucky to have worked as a silkscreener and graphic artist at the Manitoba Museum for the past 27 years. His exacting nature suited the work and he was proud to have played a role in producing exceptional displays. Joe was honoured to work with wonderful people with equally high artistic and work standards, many of whom were close friends. Joe was a lifelong member of St. Martin in the Fields Church. He served on the Vestry and as Rectors Warden. He was also very involved in the newsletter. His greatest enjoyment came from being a choir member and playing his guitar during services. Joes interests were eclectic and when he decided to pursue an interest, he did so with great gusto and completeness. He took up photography at a young age and converted many of his photographs into beautiful silkscreen prints. Many people were recipients of his generous nature as he shared his talents by giving away his prints and photographing many a family wedding. Joe was a collector of things Titanic. He could quote the smallest detail about this ship and was in the process of building a meticulously exact model. In recent years Joe took up rollerblading and would skate for miles, often at Birds Hill Park. He also practiced Yoga with friends at the museum and took great glee in showing off his flexibility to hospital staff. Joe had a kind and gentle nature which was often reflected in his love for all living creatures. He literally wouldnt kill an ant or wasp. He adored his cats, particularly Charlotte who rarely left his side during his illness. Joe was the family historian and took great pleasure in researching and maintaining records of the family tree. He enjoyed many other things: snorkeling and walking on the beach in Mexico; fine old Scotch while at his computer; Fort Garry dark ale after cutting the grass; teaching himself to repair appliances; caring for his trees; composting; digging dandelions; canoeing; chopping wood; music; playing guitar; printing photos; going to the theatre and New Music Festival- to name some. Joe loved his children deeply and was constantly in awe of their abilities, intellect and distinctiveness. He felt blessed that he had the opportunity to oversee their growth and development. Special mention must be made of the unique relationship Joe had with his nieces Stephanie and Claire Harland, Erica Haughey and nephew Eric Harland who he loved dearly and were like his grandchildren. Also nephews John, Rob, and Scott Spence who were close to him in age and like brothers. Special thanks to everyone who supported all of us and those who assisted in fulfilling Joes wish to die at home. Family, friends, co-workers who provided food, flowers, unique gifts, cards which expressed Joes value to them, the love, tears, and the knowledge that we were not alone and could always call on them for help if needed. The wonderful Palliative care team, especially Sharon who provided excellent nursing care and emotional support. Also Drs. M. Garcia and G. Crawford who actually made house calls and took the time to care and be thorough. In accordance to Joes wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 31, at 1:30 p.m. at St. Martin in the Fields Church, 160 Smithfield with The Rev. Mary Lysecki officiating. Flowers gratefully declined. In memory of Joes love for animals, donations may be made to Manitoba Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, 1191 Research Station Rd., St. Adolphe, MB; Humane Society, 5 Kent St., Winnipeg, MB R2L 1X3; or any group that cares for animals. Alternatively, in the hope that a cure will soon be found, to CancerCare Manitoba (Research), 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 30, 2003