Helen Spence

Obituary of Helen Spence

Spence, Helen Louise (nee Ryckman)

Following a life of family, hard work and quilting, Helen Louise Spence (nee Ryckman) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 with her loving husband and 3 daughters by her side. 

She was the daughter of the late Eugene & Margaret (nee Galbraith) Ryckman. 

She will be remembered by her husband, Walter Spence, her children, Debbie & Jeff Kemp, Denise Reid (the late Brian), & Diana Vereecken (the late Rudy). By her grandchildren, Dustin Kemp, Jarrod & Alicia Kemp, Gavin & Dezarae Kemp, Abbie Kemp Ball, Jennifer & Wes Klassen, Melissa & Rob Cripps, Jerry & Rachel Reid, Megan & Braden Barnier, Walter & Jenny Vereecken, Theo & Rowena Vereecken and by her great-grandchildren, Kelsey, Cole, Zephyr, Olivia, Violet, Alexis, Oakland, Evelyn, Ainsley, the late Presley, William, Julian, Isabel, Alexander, Sebastien, Damien & Xavier.

Sister of Eugene Ryckman (the late Shirley) & Gary Ryckman (the late Phyllis).

Sister-in-law of Benny Spence (Ruthanne), & Rosemary Larkin (Tim). 

Missed by many nieces, nephews & extended family. 

After retiring from the Catholic School System, Mom was an avid quilter & loved her crafts. Walter & Helen enjoyed traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance & LHSC - University Hospital for their care and compassion. 


Family to receive friends & family on Friday, October 20, 2023 at the Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown from 3:00 - 5:00 pm. A Funeral Liturgy will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday at the Funeral Home. Burial is to follow in St. Michael's Cemetery, Ridgetown. 

In memory of Helen, a memorial donation may be made to a charity of ones choice.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. 

McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East,
Ridgetown
519 674 3141

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