Obituary of Howard Allan Spalding
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Howard Allan Spalding, KC, (affectionately known as Howie). He passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 2, 2023, at the age of 79, after a year long struggle with dementia. He was a loving father, devoted husband, friend, mentor, lawyer, hobby farmer, and a pillar of his community. He has left an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Howard was raised in Lowe Farm, Manitoba, and he met his wife and biggest supporter, Donna, while working in Toronto. In 1969, they began to grow their family. They had a son and then adopted six more children over the years. Together, Howard and Donna returned to school as mature students and attended the University of New Brunswick. Howard, upon graduating from UNB Law, began practicing law in Saint John, New Brunswick. He was a special friend to his clients and was often paid with gifts such as baked goods, livestock, bird houses or paintings, likely to the bewilderment of his law partners.
Survived by his wife, Donna Spalding (Gillis) whose unwavering support and love were the foundation of the beautiful family they built together in Hampton, New Brunswick. Together, they navigated life's challenges and joys, building a legacy of love and compassion that will forever be remembered.
Howard is also survived by his cherished children, whose lives were forever enriched by his love and guidance. Jade (Stephanie Hossack), Angus (Becky Crawford), Jason (Nicollette Weathers), Scott (Tina Kelly), Jessica (Kevin Melanson), and Aleta (Douglas Cromwell). Howard’s devotion to his children knew no bounds, and his presence in their lives will continue to be felt through the memories, values, wisdom, and kindness he instilled in them.
In addition to his children, Howard leaves behind his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought immeasurable joy to his life. Grandchildren Joel (Andreyna Zazula), Ashlie (Channing Rousselle), Damon, Avery, Raina, Morgan, Sam, Neve, Grant, Amara, Blake, Fallon, Easton, Jasmine, Lia, Justin, Lucia, Ali, and Luke. Great grandchildren Ruby, Jayden, Kye and Tucker. Howard enjoyed watching them grow, and his love will forever remain a guiding light in their lives.
Howard’s remarkable journey was also shared by his siblings, Norma (Ron Hoeppner), June (Eldon Wiebe) and Evelyn (Jim Rempel) and brothers-in-law, Dennis Gillis (Frances) and Ron Gillis (Sheila Profit), and sister-in-law, Karen Gillis, and Jan Burns.
Howard was predeceased by his parents, Norman and Carrie Spalding, sister Evelyn, sister-in-law Frances (Bourgeois) Gillis, Ashlie’s mother, Nadine Halliday and Joel’s mother Karen Zazula. Howie’s impact on his family and community will never be forgotten. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
While Howard had numerous accomplishments in his life, his greatest by far was his loving family and friends.
A special thank you to Lynda Parks and the entire staff at the St. Joseph’s Hospital - CAM unit for the care provided to Howard over the last year.
Arrangements are entrusted to Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424). As per his request, there will be no funeral, but a Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 20, 2023, from 6:00-8:30 p.m. at the Hampton Senior Resource Center 31 Demile Court Hampton, NB. Donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation- CAM unit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/m/69762?v2=true or the charity of the donor’s choice.
