It is with profound sadness and grief that we announce that Charles Nolan Spence (Charlie), a beloved husband, father, grandfather and father-in-law, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Berbice, Guyana, Charles attended Queen's College, where he was recognized as an elite athlete for track and field and cricket. He commenced his career with Cable and Wireless before immigrating to Canada. He was employed with the Toronto Police Service for many years, then with Air Canada. He retired from Canada News Wire after more than 25 years of service. He was known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and warm, engaging nature.
Charles loved cooking, music, electronics, and spending time with family. He is survived by his loving wife Rita, his daughter Donna, his son-in-law Kris, and his grandchildren Nicholas (Alexandra) and Lucas. He leaves behind his brother Reginald Orrin Spence (Velma), his sisters Sheila Eytle (the late Joe), Dawn Diaz (Omar) and nephews and nieces in the United Kingdom and the United States. Charles will be sadly missed by his sister-in-law Grace Husbands, his nephew Andre Spence, his nieces Louise Carew, Nadia Smid (John), Devika Bradshaw (Jeff), Sabrina Ramdeholl (Jim Worling), Sunita Givens (John), and their families.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all of the nurses, PSW's and staff who provided exceptional care and kindness to Charles during his lengthy stay at Lakeridge Bowmanville Hospital.
He will be welcomed into heaven by the angels, his parents Clifford and Eileen, and siblings Ronald and Desiree.
Charles will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Funeral Details
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Visitation
Thornton Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Centres
1200 Thornton Road, North Oshawa, ON, CANADA, L1J 0C9
Get Directions
Saturday, 7 Feb 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Info: Enter Through Dryden Blvd Gates.
Funeral
Thornton Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Centres
1200 Thornton Road, North Oshawa, ON, CANADA, L1J 0C9
Get Directions
Saturday, 7 Feb 2026 12:30 PM
Info: Enter through Dryden Blvd gates. There will be a reception following the service. A link to livestream the Funeral Service will become active on Saturday February 7th at 12:00pm, and will be found at the top of this page.