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Obituary of Benny Spence
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Obituary of Benny Spence
Benjamin Franklin Spence (Benny) passed away peacefully at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham, on Friday, August 14, 2026, at the age of 84. Predeceased by his parents Garnet and Hilda (Bowman) Spence.
Beloved husband of Ruth Ann (Zimmer) for 61 years and father to Darrin (Susan) and Brendan (Janee), Jen (Brad) and Jordan (Michelle).
Survived by his loving grandchildren Devin (Hannah) and Holden Spence, Grant and Ashlynn Spence, Brady, Cooper and Spencer Heschuk, Cameron and Carson Spence. Predeceased by grandson Craig Spence in April 2024.
Also survived by his loving great-grandchildren Mason, Hattie, Hazel and Sutton and many nieces and nephews.
Ben will be missed by his brother Walter Spence (Helen predeceased) and sister Rosemary Larkin (Tim predeceased)
Benny farmed all his life. It was his passion- raising livestock, growing hay, and cultivating crops. He devoted his life to his land working hard to support his family. He ‘retired’ over a decade ago, but still enjoyed his favourite pastime, a daily crop tour around his farm checking his crops, listening to his favourite Polka music with a cold Lakeport in hand.
A devoted lifetime member of St Michael’s Catholic Church, Benny also proudly served on the St. Michael’s Cemetery Board for over 50 years.
Benny loved to spend time chatting with his neighbours and friends about current events, daily farm markets and gas prices. His humour and wisdom of the good old days will be greatly missed.
The Funeral Mass for Benny will be celebrated at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church, 26 George Street, Ridgetown on Friday, August 21, at 11am. Interment to follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations made in memory of Benny to the Craig Spence Foundation or a charity of your choice 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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Ridgetown: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-397
Blenheim: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-41
Chatham: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-174
Nathan McKinlay is in charge of day-to-day operations in Chatham.
Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
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