Obituary of James Allan Spence

1919 - 2010

It is with deep sorrow that the family of James Allan Spence announces his passing on December 24, 2010 in Cranbrook, British Columbia at 91 years of age.

Jim was born on December 3, 1919 and raised on a farm near Chauvin, Alberta. He enlisted at a young age and served in the Navy. The majority of his life he lived in B.C. near the lakes and mountains that he loved. After becoming a heavy duty mechanic he worked in camps in isolated areas of northern B.C. where he enjoyed fishing and snowmobiling.

While working for the mines in Sparwood he met Ethel. They married late in life and enjoyed many wonderful years together. Upon retiring, he bought a raw piece of land in Jaffray and transformed it into a beautiful park. His favourite saying was "the sun is always shining in Jaffray". Rain was merely liquid sunshine. Jim soon became a member of the Lions Club and made many good friends in the community. Good times were always enjoyed by the family at their home. Ethel's children loved and respected Jim. They learned many life lessons from him. Many grandchildren and great grandchildren cuddled on grandpa's lap over the years. He loved them all. Family was very important and he was close to his sisters and their families.

A few years after Ethel's passing Jim moved into Joseph Creek Village where he lived the next 10 years. He met another resident, Luella Booth. She brought a new joy to his life and was a wonderful companion. He had many good friends there, residents and staff. He moved to Joseph Creek Care Village about a year before his passing.

Jim was a well respected man. Lives that he touched were always enhanced. He will be greatly missed.

Jim is survived by his sons Rick, Bill and Dave Young; daughter Gwen Alsop; and their spouses; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; 1 niece and 2 nephews, numerous cousins and relatives. He was pre-deceased by his wife Ethel; parents Tom and Edith; and sisters Marguerite Thoreson and Winnifred Ottewell.

A Memorial Tea for Jim was held at Joseph Creek Village on December 28, 2010. His Interment will take place in Jaffray in the spring with a family memorial service. Those wishing to make a memorial donations in honour of Jim may do so to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com