Paul William Spence

Paul William Spence, age 87, of La Grande, died Monday, November 17, 2003 at the Capital Medical Center in Olympia, Washington with his family at his side. A graveside service will be held at the North Powder Cemetery on Saturday, November 22, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow. Viewing will be held on Friday, November 21, 2003 at Daniels Chapel of the Valley from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Mr. Spence was born on February 8, 1916, the son of Harry and Grace (Truscott) Spence in Mabton, Washington. He attended grade school in Keating and high school in Baker City. He married Peggy Ann Pearson on October 3, 1937 in Milton-Freewater. They lived in Baker City and then moved to Santa Rosa, California where Mr. Spence worked as a crew foreman at Mare Island Naval Base before and during World War II. They then returned Baker City and in 1955 moved to La Grande. Mr. Spence worked as an auto mechanic for M.J. Goss Motor Company until his retirement. His wife preceded him in death on December 9, 1994.

Mr. Spence was a member of the La Grande Eagles Lodge. He was a devoted family man, totally dedicated to his wife and was very proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with "his girls" and his son. He had a passion for pheasant hunting and enjoyed fishing. He liked antique automobiles, walking, riding his old fashioned Schwinn bicycle, watching one T.V. soap opera and sports, especially Blazer basketball.

Survivors include his son and his fiancée, Bill Spence and Penny Buss; grandchildren and their spouses, Jill Kristine and John Snyder and Todd William and Autumn Spence; twin great grandchildren, Hunter Joseph and Chase William Spence, all of Olympia, Washington; sister, Marjorie Williams of Baker City; and many other relatives and friends. His parents and two brothers preceded him in death. Mr. Spence was a very kind, loving and caring man who touched the hearts of many. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Mr. Spence to the Leukemia Association or the Lung Association in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon 97850. To view the unedited obituary, sign the guest book or leave a condolence on-line, visit www.danielschapel.com