May 1, 1939 - May 19, 2016
"Spence" was born on May 1, 1939 in Victoria to Gunnar and Marilyn Wigard. They moved to the Sunshine Coast in 1946 where his Father had a logging camp near Egmont. They eventually settled in Selma Park when he went to school. After marrying Bonnie (nee Brackett), they built their life in Davis Bay and had four children - Kimberly (Darin), Chris (Jess), Brad and Tara (Mike). He had seven grandchildren - Hannah, Ryan, Kaden, Nolan, Brooklyn, Jackson and Brody. He is also survived by his brothers Lorne (Phyllis), Roy (Helen), and brother-in-law Ken. Predeceased by his parents and sister Suzanne.
Spence enjoyed fishing, hunting and logger sports especially the hot saw events. He was a skilled carpenter and faller who built many quality homes and was a perfectionist in his craft. He was also a member of the Rod and Gun Club and loved to watch his sons and grandsons play hockey.
He was a quiet, gentle giant who was a man of few words, but when he spoke we all listened. He was wise, and loved to see the joy and laughter in his grandchildren. They kept him young at heart and were his greatest accomplishment. He was their greatest teacher.
He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a long, courageous fight with cancer. We would like to acknowledge the love and support of the Brackett family who were there until the end and who were a huge part of Spencer's life.
The family would like to recognize his special bonds with his brother-in-law Ted, nephew Gunnar, and close neighbours who made a positive impact on his life.
He will be forever missed as an incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle.
Thank you to the compassionate and hardworking home care support nurses and care aides. Your kind and gentle manner was very much appreciated.
Celebration of Life to be held at 4:00pm on Saturday, June 18 at the Sechelt Seaside Center.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to British Columbia Children's Hospital; a charity close to his heart.