Edwin Joseph Spence, 91, of Ottawa, passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at LaSalle County Nursing Home.
Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.
Joe was born May 13, 1934 in Ottawa, IL to Edwin and Millie (Duchala) Spence. He attended St. Francis Grade School and Marquette High School. He went on to attend Illinois State University and St. Bede Academy. He then served his country in the United States Army.
Joe learned his baking skills from his father at a young age. This led to a lifelong career. He started at 14 years old baking at Spence Bakery here in Ottawa. He then became a partner in the bakery with his brother, Tom, after his father’s retirement. He later went on to bake for Pleasant View Lutheran Home, Handy Foods, and Dunkin’ Donuts.
Joe was a very accomplished artist, specializing in Indian portraits, until his sight started to deteriorate due to macular degeneration. His family credits him for his steel-trap memory, remembering people and stories throughout his life. Though he married a Cubs fan, he stood by the Chicago White Sox and Bears through good and bad.
He will be remembered as being patient, kind, understanding, and nonjudgmental. He was a great storyteller, was totally devoted to his beloved wife, Patti, and so very proud of his son, Joe.
He is survived by his wife, Patti; his son, Joseph Spence; one brother, Tom Spence; three sisters, Rosie Merdian, Lou Doll, and Jean Raudonis; ten nieces and nephews; and 21 great-nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of LaSalle County Nursing home for their thoughtful care given to Joe, as well as a thank you to their cousin, Liz Carlson, for always being there for them.
The online guest book may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.ottawafuneralhome.com
Ottawa Funeral Home & Crematory
1111 LaSalle St, Ottawa, Illinois 61350
815-433-0300
www.ottawafuneralhome.com
