Obituary of Robert J. Spence
Spence: Robert "Bob" John -
A lifelong resident of Orford Township, Bob Spence passed away at Four Counties Health Services on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at the age of 91.
Born in Aldborough, Bob was the son of the late Clayton and Catherine (née McDonald) Spence.
Beloved husband of 69 years to Marie (née Simpson).
Loving father to Pete Spence (Louanne) and Susanne Spence Wilkins (Manfred Wiehle).
Proud Grandpa to Kate Wilkins-Irvine (Bob), Aaron Wilkins (April), Shelby Spence and Bailey Spence.
Great-Grandpa to Wyatt and Waylann Wilkins.
Brother to Linda Parney (Will) and brother-in-law to Eileen Brown. Predeceased by sisters Betty and Olive and brother Eldon.
Also missed by nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.
Bob founded Robert J. Spence Construction in 1958, and worked with Marie and Pete in the family business.
Bob was a pilot and enjoyed flying with Marie and their family and friends in small airplanes around North America.
Bob, his friend Claude Johnson and many others spent 22 years restoring the Fairey Swordfish, a World War II torpedo bomber. At the time it was one of two flying in the world. This led to his family hosting the Muirkirk Airshow for six years, bringing aircraft and aircraft enthusiasts from all over.
Bob loved to travel, but his favourite place was home on the farm, where he and Marie built their life.
Bob had been a member of the Highgate Masonic Lodge for over 60 years, a member of the Blenheim Shrine Club and the Ontario Flying Farmers for many years.
Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown on Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 2:00 - 4:00pm and 6:00 - 8:00pm. A Masonic Service will be held Thursday at 6:00pm. A Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home at 11:00am on Friday, December 13, 2024. Interment to follow at McLean Cemetery.
Donations made in memory of Bob to the Four Counties Health Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141
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