Obituary of David Andrew Spence

It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of David Andrew Spence, husband, father, son at the age of 65 with family at his side. He will lovingly and forever be remembered and cherished by his wife Darlene; sons Joe (Neewa) and Chris (Kaylee); father Ron; brothers Randy (Gina) and Kevin (Shelley); sisters Cindy (Milton), Lori (Barry) and Kristi (Andrew); in-laws Ron (Elsie) Yarish, Jason Yarish; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, numerous good friends including childhood friend Rick Grier who was like a brother to him. Dave was predeceased by his mother Florence Eileen Spence. Dave was born December 10, 1955 in Vita, Manitoba. He was raised in the Woodmore area where his love of the outdoors began. Dave was a true outdoorsman. He was an avid fisherman who loved being at the lake and boating in West Hawk and the nearby lakes. He also shared his love of the outdoors with his sons and they spent many a time canoeing, hiking, camping and photographing the beauty around them. Dave had a real love for fishing even as a young boy. When he and his family would go out to Lake Brereton with their grandpa, his grandpa would tell them the night before he was going fishing the next morning at 5:00 am and to be out by the boat or you would have to stay home. Dave was always the only one who would get up, even a little earlier just in case, to go. Dave’s love of nature and wildlife is transparent in his photos to how he strung a robin’s nest back into a tree that had fallen with the young birds. Dave was a hunter in his younger years but preferred to photograph the wildlife in his later years. Dave was a master carpenter/contractor for 40+ years. He worked in Southern Manitoba, Alberta and finally settled into the West Hawk area where all his customers/friends can attest to the quality of his work. He was a perfectionist and would often work late just to get something right. Many a night he could also be seen drawing up blueprints for a job. He took pride in his work and his work reflected that. Whatever Dave did, he did it passionately. At a young age he took an interest in photography which grew over the years to the point that several of his photos can be seen in the West Hawk area. Dave’s interest in photography was not just limited to a camera; he enjoyed taking aerial photos with his RC planes and drones. Dave also inherited the talent and love of music from his parents. He played guitar and piano which he learned to play by ear. Dave also loved traveling and adventure. Dave often traveled to Banff and the surrounding area to hike, camp and ski both downhill and cross-country. He was a genuine person with a quiet disposition who will be remembered by all for his kindness, strong work ethic, and his willingness to lend a hand to anyone. His family would appreciate you sharing any memories here, on his tribute page. In accordance with Dave’s wishes cremation has taken place. Due to covid restrictions no service will be held at this time.