Obituary of Isobel Spence

Charlot Isobel (Campbell) Spence of Lafleche SK, passed peacefully August 15, 2024 at the age of 106.

Isobel was born on July 9, 1918, in Gillingham, Kent, England to Sgt. Major Lawrence J. “Red” Campbell of the 42nd (Suicide) Battalion and Charlotte (Chambers) Campbell. She immigrated to Canada in November of 1918, living first in Caron, followed by Moose Jaw, Coderre, Shamrock and eventually making her home at Lafleche in August of 1959.

A woman of vast intellect who could converse, debate and story tell with great enthusiasm. Isobel was a passionate educator, well beyond her years in the classroom. She was one of the first teachers at the “new” Lafleche Central High School in 1959 and remained there for the next nineteen years inspiring many students with her wisdom. Isobel was a very active community member, holding a variety of different offices over the years. The Lafleche United Church was an especially important part of her life. She also dedicated much of her time to provincial organizations like the Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan, serving as president and proudly becoming a life-member. All of her local and provincial contributions are just too many to list; she was passionate and committed to all of them.

To say that Isobel was an avid reader is a huge understatement, she enjoyed many different genres and when her vision failed her, she relied on audiobooks. She also enjoyed a good game of scrabble or bridge.

But most dear to Isobel’s heart, was her family, all of whom she loved unconditionally. She had away of making everyone feel special and was genuinely interested in what was going on in everyone’s life. It was always a pleasure to spend time with her.

Isobel was predeceased by her parents; all four siblings Eleanor, Mary, Scott, and Graeme; husband George Spence; daughter Laurie Watteyne; grandson Brian Watteyne; granddaughter-in-law Amber Erickson.

Isobel will be forever cherished and lovingly remembered by her ever supportive family: son-in-law Gerard Watteyne; daughter Heather Langman (Harry Pumfrey); daughter Kathryn (Wayne) Erickson; son Merritt (Linda) Spence; 10 grandchildren:  Anne-Marie (Ken) Lesy, Gerald Watteyne, Brenda (Les) Clampitt, Shane Watteyne, Laurie (Bruce) Toews, Jody Langman (Cliff Yamniuk), Zoë Erickson, Lee Erickson, Riley Spence (Jackie Olaso), Robert (Joëlle) Spence; many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, and Marilyn Lamont, a dear friend, but considered family.

The family will celebrate the life of its matriarch at a later date. Isobel will be laid to rest beside her husband at Shamrock Municipal Cemetery.