Garry Lawrence Spence

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear husband, grandpa, uncle, cousin, godfather, brother-in-law and friend Garry at the age of 79 years old, with family and friends by his side.

Garry will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife Lena of 48 years, also by his grandchildren and great grandchildren; Destiny, Chasity, Jordan, Izzy Jr. and Justice. Desjai, Jaydes, Ah-Kyah, Sky, Ocean, Trinity, Diamond, Niel, Tony and Gino. God father to Brian Cambell Jr. and Leanne Spence. Sisters and brothers: Claire T. Riddle, Ida, Myles and Michael Spence, Karen (Stuart), plus numerous nieces and nephews. Brothers and sisters-in-law Margaret (Lawrence), Wilfred (Bernice), Garry (Joyce), Harold (Lucille), Judie-ann (Harry) and Warren.

He was predeceased by his only daughter Rachel Vermette (2023), son-in-law Isadore Vermette (2021), mother and father-in-law Lissie & Dolphus Catcheway, parents Arsene Joseph and Adeline Spence, paternal grandparents Joseph and Nancy Spence, brothers Leonard, Francis, Dennis, Steve, and Paul Spence and sisters Annette and Karen.

Garry grew up in Eddystone, MB. In his early days at a young age of 14 he carried responsibilities that shaped the man he would become. When his father offered him a choice between school or work, he chose work. Not out of obligation but out of determination. He laboured in many jobs across Winnipeg, always showing up with steady hands and a humble heart.

Fate brought him to the Candy Factory, where he met the love of his life Lena. Their connection was immediate and enduring. They married in 1978 and went on to share 48 years of marriage and knowing each other for 53 years. Through every season of life, he remained constant, a quiet anchor for his family. Together, they also fostered many children over the years.

Portage became his home in 1996, a place where he worked hard at the Recycling Centre, until his injury. The injury kept him close to home but often travelled back to Eddyston, the place where he grew up, the memories, the land, the quiet joys he loved. Those memories and moments brought him comfort especially the time spent with family and siblings. In the last years, when travelling was no longer possible, he stayed home surrounded by love with grandchildren and great grandchildren.

His granddaughter Ah-Kyah Richard was his heart, always looking forward to her visits. His heartbeat kept him here fighting to stay longer until the very end. In 2023, his heart shattered when the only daughter Rachel passed. His grief never loosened its hold. His final words to her, whispered through tears, “I’ll see you soon my girl” became a promise only a father’s heart could make.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the Portage Hospital doctors and nurses. A special thank you to the Rehab unit, where he felt truly comfortable and cared for under their excellent support. Also, to the Home Care staff that came daily and to his nephew Peter Catcheway whom he always assisted with care. They were very close to each other.

Wake will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, beginning at 11:00 am at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. Burial to follow at Evergreen Memorial Gardens.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021.