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Susan Brown posted a condolence
Thursday, March 23, 2023
I was privileged to know Dick both as my English teacher in high school at Riverside Collegiate in the mid-seventies, and also though a number of years of political campaigns. I remember evenings spent at his home when some of us would talk politics for hours where every viewpoint was respected. He was an exceptional teacher, mentor, and friend and he will be missed. My condolences to the family.
Susan (Scheidl) Brown
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Arthur Whitter posted a condolence
Friday, March 3, 2023
John and family:
To the extent that I am a political creature, it is because I learned at the feet of the masters--and when you're a kid of six or seven growing up in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, those masters don't come any greater than Dick Spencer and John Diefenbaker, both of whom were in our home (your dad on many occasions, and Mr. Diefenbaker on a few) when we lived in Prince Albert. My mom provided a spot for Mrs. Olive Diefenbaker to rest and have a few hours to herself on several occasions. But, as there is more to me than politics (Go Riders! Go Seahawks!), so there was more to your father than politics. (As an English teacher, he would surely failed me for beginning every sentence so far with a preposition!) He was supportive of me in all aspects of my life, and was sure to be there to congratulate me on such accomplishments as getting my B.A. from the U of S and my 50th birthday.
Your dad made a strong contribution to my youth and my growth as a person and I will never forget it.
My thoughts are with you, Elaine, Benjamin and Colette.
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jill Cavanagh posted a condolence
Sunday, February 26, 2023
I truly came on PA Now today (Feb. 26th to see if Dick Spencer was still living. I wanted to write him a note to tell him how much I appreciated him as a teacher and more as a friend. When I was in Grade Nine I tried out for the cheerleading team. My older brother's girlfriend use to take me to her cheerleading practices' when they were dating. I knew so many of the cheers! Dick was one of the judges and when I started to do the yell he "pretended" to fall out of his chair....I had a deep voice and a loud one. I was the only grade nine girl in 1963 to make the team. He was an excellent teacher, but I NEVER came to understand the readings of Shakespeare or Chaucer. I was so disappointed when I did not seem him at the last PACI reunion. May he rest in peace with your beloved Mother and his beloved wife. Jill Anderson Cavanagh.
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Earl (Wayne) Sundbo posted a condolence
Saturday, February 25, 2023
My sincere condolences to the Spencer family. Mr Spencer was my composition teacher at P.A.C.I in the early 60's. He was the best teacher I ever had. When he taught you learned, and I always got good marks in his classes. Rest in peace Mr. Spencer.
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George Whitter posted a condolence
Saturday, February 25, 2023
To John and family:
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy and the tremendous respect that I had for your father. I remember the day that I met him. He was looking for some notes on the class at U of S that he had missed. There was an upcoming evaluation, and he said that he had noted the student halfway across the room who always kept notes and asked worthwhile questions. Several years later, after a year of my teaching in Lloydminster, I met him at PACI with a broad smile; he said, "I certainly remember you". From that time on came a lasting and valued friendship. My dad was the owner of the Hill Grocery, kitty-corner from PACI (NE corner of Central Avenue and 20th Street); additionally, he had been the federal Progressive Conservative candidate in 1949 before Mr. Diefenbaker's 1953 triumph. The original Diefenbaker home was on 20th Street West, opposite PACI and about three houses west of Central Avenue and the Hill Grocery. It was then that your dad first met Mr. Diefenbaker, and The Chief recognized that it was something special and they formed a significant and lasting bond. Your dad's professional and political careers and his incredible teaching skills were well known and are attested to by so many former students. Your dad exemplified the Progressive side of the Progressive Conservative Party. Your dad loved Prince Albert. His civic service is well attested to by his remarkable dedication to the City of Prince Albert as Alderman and later as Mayor. I treasure my lasting relationship with your dad and with your mom, and I'm so pleased that my son, Arthur, had an 'Uncle Dick' Arthur remembers his visits to our homes well, and he joins me in expressing our sorrow at your dad's passing. Know that all of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
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Richard Burden lit a candle
Saturday, February 25, 2023
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To the Spencer family:
I remember Mr. Spencer English class at Carlton High School the very first day for home work was an essay we had to have done by the next day. RIP Mr. Spencer,
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Coby Demkiw-Bartel posted a condolence
Saturday, February 25, 2023
Dear John and family,
I was saddened to hear of your loss. Losing a parent is never easy, and I can't imagine what you and your family must be going through at this time. Your father was not only your dad but also my teacher, and he made a significant impact on my life. I remember the countless times he pushed us to be better versions of ourselves and always challenged us to think outside the box. His guidance and wisdom have stayed with me long after I left school.
Your father was an excellent teacher and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from him. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Take care and stay strong.
Coby Demkiw-Bartel
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Desmond Short posted a condolence
Thursday, February 23, 2023
John and family,
My deepest condolences. Your dad was one of my favorite teachers. I was also very proud to know him as a mentor and friend. Dick will always be a fixture in my memory.
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Barb Gustafson posted a condolence
Thursday, February 23, 2023
To John and family -- I'm sure you know from the many tributes, if you didn't already know, what an influence your father had on Prince Albert and beyond.
While I never had him as a high school teacher, I did take a U of S College of Commerce class he taught in Prince Albert. My experience in that class and one other led me to pursue an MBA, and later a PhD. I remember his pride when I told him I had achieved my PhD. He was an example of a great teacher who expected the best from his students and took pride in their success.
As a city councillor and mayor, he was a rare politician in that he understood the role of the media and cultivated positive relationships with us as reporters and editors at the Daily Herald. There was a respect in his comments, verbal or hard written, that is most often missing from such interactions.
And as an author, he wrote as he spoke. with style and exuberance. When he asked me to write a "blurb" for the cover of his second book, I was honoured. I have signed copies on my bookshelf.
Prince Albert and its people have been changed for the better by the efforts of your father and mother over their lifetimes. Thank you for sharing them with us.
Barb Gustafson
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Brad J Allen-Class of '77 posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Sorry for the loss to friends and family and fellow students of a genuine "character"-one who was the Marcus Brutus of our time.
For the love of his school, his students, his city and his Canada. For those who have been deeply influenced by an educator — who were inspired, motivated, challenged, and supported by his teachings and his mannerisms that spoke of true belief in the love he showed to those that wanted to learn.
The critical role of teachers in our societal ecosystem is clear. And Dick was no exception. They say the Teachers impact students’ lives in so many ways, some of which (particularly those that are lasting and truly meaningful) are difficult to measure outside of individual stories. Dick was no exception! His name and memory will live on!
Mr. Spencer brought me up to the front of the class one day as he really thought I had the answer to one his questions regarding classical literature. He thought I would be THE ONE to know as No one else knew. Well, I did not, he was at the back of the class and threw a small soft covered book at me-The IMPACT of Shakespeare(or therein) not to return until I read it.. Was finished it in 24 hours! LOL- You will never be forgotten!
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Dave Morgan, Regina, Sask. posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
To the Spencer family. "not good night, but good morrow!"
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the death of a very good man who dedicated his life to the betterment of Prince Albert and its residents, both as an educator and an elected municipal public servant. .
Although I only attended PACI for one year in 1965\66, Mr. Spencer made a huge impression on me, both as my Grade 12 English Literature teacher and during his first year as the new Vice Principal of the "old school on the hill."
While Mr. Spencer and I disagreed on many things, including politics, he instilled his belief in his students that public service was a very noble calling.
Although I was so impressed that Mr. Spencer was a valued and trusted advisor to and confidant of the Prime Minister of Canada, the Right Hon John G. Diefenbaker, he never, ever, talked partisan politics in his classroom. Mr. Spencer always encouraged us to support candidates running for the political parties of our choice. (I did just that, Dick.)
Many years ago now I called Mr. Spencer at his home to compliment him on his book about the political life of the late Mr. Diefenbaker. He was out at the time, so I enjoyed a brief, but pleasant chat with Mrs. Spencer, who assured me that " "Dick would have been pleased to have received my message!".
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Ron Woodward posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
It is with sadness that I read of Dick’s passing. I am personally grateful for the friendship and mentorship Dick provided me during my time as an educator in Prince Albert. I first met Dick when he was accompanying John Diefenbaker during election campaigns. He took special interest in my role as a system administrator in the rural school division and later during my time as an administrator at Natonum Community College. His advice, sometimes unsolicited, was always wise…and sometimes I was wise enough to follow it! I admired Dick as an educator, a politician, and as a community leader. He taught me the importance of engaging in community leadership, and the value of community service. Though it has been many years since we lived in Prince Albert I have often thought of the “lessons Dick taught me” in my own life journey.
Condolences to John and family. In the midst of your sorrow you have much to celebrate in remembering your Dad’s life and the differences he made to so many lives and to the Prince Albert community. Rest well Mr. Spencer.
Ron Woodward, Parksville BC
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Vivian Reeves posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
My deepest sympathy on the passing of your loved one. I thought the world of Dick!!! He was an awesome educator!!! Thinking of you all. Prayers.....Vivian Reeves. A former colleague at Carlton School.
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Monica Benoit posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
John, Elaine, Ben and Colette - I am so sorry to hear of your loss, but hope you are all able to take comfort in your Dad/Grandfather’s longevity that was filled with meaning and purpose and contribution to community, which fosters both pride and inspiration. In the coming days and months, I hope many warm memories shared amongst family and friends that provide you all with comfort.
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John Surkan posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
I am saddened to hear of Mr Spencer's passing. He was a huge influence for me, both at Carlton as well as through my adult life. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. John Surkan
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Gary Fowlie posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
He was a great educator and proof that teaching is the noblest of professions.
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Dave Forrest posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Students liked and respected Mr. Spencer. He accepted our pranks with grace, including the time we appeared at his home early one morning complete with a CKBI tv cameraman to record our presentation to him of the oldest horse that we could walk to his door. He committed himself to teaching and to PA!
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Jackie Locke posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
I’m so sorry for your loss. I was one of the lucky ones at Carleton who was taught by him in 1994. He was so passionate about teaching and could keep up with all the teenagers without a problem! He made an impact on this world. Rest now, Dick, you’ve earned it.
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Abel Corpuz posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
My deepest and sincerest condolences to the both of you, John and Elaine. Mr. Spencer was a great man and educator. I'm glad I had the privilege of being in his English class. Heard a lot of stories about the "Paddle" and fortunately wasn't at the receiving end. Loved that mischievous smile he always had. He will be remembered in my heart.
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The family of Richard Earle Spencer uploaded a photo
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
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Dave Sims posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
He was a great teacher. You could tell he loved books. He also had a great sense of humour. One time he lent me and a classmate his car so we could go check up on a student who was supposed to be in class but was skipping school. When we done we parked his car and left his stereo on full blast.
The next day he made me recite how he was nearly blown out of the back window when he started his car. He really liked students but would pretend to be sterner than he was. A truly great guy. I've never forgotten him.
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