Gertrude Spence

Gertrude Elizabeth Spence was released from the bonds of earth, old age, and illness and has gone to be with friends, family, and beloved pets. She died Monday, January 9, 2017.

Gertrude was born in Three Oaks to George L. and Gertrude Paff Glover, but lived most of her life in Niles. She showed considerable talent in art, floral design, and music in her youth and early adult years, but gave up these passions to devote herself to raising a family. She married Jack A. Spence on September 15, 1943, and they had two sons – Jack Jr. and George Scott Spence – who survive. Also surviving are Jack’s wife SueAnn (Clark), two grandsons, and five great-grandchildren.

Gertrude loved all animals and gained a reputation for raising orphaned injured wild animals as well as stray dogs. Few people know of her generosity toward charities benefitting people in need as well as animals.

According to her wishes, Gertrude was buried on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 in Three Oaks Forest Lawn Cemetery, near her parents. She directed people who wished to remember her to make a donation to their favorite charity benefitting people and/or animals. Funeral Home arrangements were entrusted to Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Service.