In Loving Memory: CWO Al Spruce Ret’d – Northern Lights Funeral Chapel
CWO Al Spruce Ret’d
CWO Alvin Norman “Al” Spruce, CD (Ret’d)
On October 1, 2026, Chief Warrant Officer Alvin Norman “Al” Spruce, CD (Ret’d), of Cold Lake AB, passed away at the age of 89 years. Al was a Combat Engineer with Airborne specialty.
Born in Ingersoll, ON, on November 17, 1936, Al’s wanderlust and thirst for adventure lead him to join the Canadian Forces in 1953 at the age of 16. After completing the Sapper Apprentice 2 nd Intake and training at the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack, BC in 1955, Al’s military career trajectory saw him progress from Sapper to CWO over the course of more than 38 years. He certainly fulfilled his wish for adventure, with many years spent as a member of the Canadian Airborne Regiment and postings to Werl, Germany (twice); Petawawa ON (twice); Valcartier QC; St. Hubert QC; Edmonton AB; Lahr, Germany; and Cold Lake, AB. Al retired from the regular forces in 1991, and then spent the next ten years involved with the Cold Lake Cadet Camp. After his final retirement, he spent his days fishing, woodworking, and watching his beloved Toronto Blue Jays. He had high hopes for their playoff chances this year, but sadly, it was not to be.
Al had the good fortune to meet a kindred spirit who shared his love of travel – his wife of 68 years, Lee (nee Ranger) – who survives him. He also leaves to mourn four children: Sheryl (Terry Rae), Judee (Kevin Gaul), Kevin, and Dean (Shirley Brears); eight grandchildren: Jennifer, Kristi, Colin, Stefan, Ryan, Calvin, Brandon, and Rachel; nine great-grandchildren; and two brothers Dan and Dave.
Predeceased by his parents Colin and Irene (nee Johnson) and nine of his eleven siblings.
In accordance with Al’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no service will be held. If desired, donations may be made to the Cold Lake Legion (1007 – 7 Ave, Cold Lake, AB T9M 0C4).
Obituary respectfully submitted by the family.
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In Loving Memory: CWO Al Spruce Ret’d – Northern Lights Funeral Chapel
CWO Al Spruce Ret’d
CWO Alvin Norman “Al” Spruce, CD (Ret’d)
On October 1, 2026, Chief Warrant Officer Alvin Norman “Al” Spruce, CD (Ret’d), of Cold Lake AB, passed away at the age of 89 years. Al was a Combat Engineer with Airborne specialty.
Born in Ingersoll, ON, on November 17, 1936, Al’s wanderlust and thirst for adventure lead him to join the Canadian Forces in 1953 at the age of 16. After completing the Sapper Apprentice 2 nd Intake and training at the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack, BC in 1955, Al’s military career trajectory saw him progress from Sapper to CWO over the course of more than 38 years. He certainly fulfilled his wish for adventure, with many years spent as a member of the Canadian Airborne Regiment and postings to Werl, Germany (twice); Petawawa ON (twice); Valcartier QC; St. Hubert QC; Edmonton AB; Lahr, Germany; and Cold Lake, AB. Al retired from the regular forces in 1991, and then spent the next ten years involved with the Cold Lake Cadet Camp. After his final retirement, he spent his days fishing, woodworking, and watching his beloved Toronto Blue Jays. He had high hopes for their playoff chances this year, but sadly, it was not to be.
Al had the good fortune to meet a kindred spirit who shared his love of travel – his wife of 68 years, Lee (nee Ranger) – who survives him. He also leaves to mourn four children: Sheryl (Terry Rae), Judee (Kevin Gaul), Kevin, and Dean (Shirley Brears); eight grandchildren: Jennifer, Kristi, Colin, Stefan, Ryan, Calvin, Brandon, and Rachel; nine great-grandchildren; and two brothers Dan and Dave.
Predeceased by his parents Colin and Irene (nee Johnson) and nine of his eleven siblings.
In accordance with Al’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no service will be held. If desired, donations may be made to the Cold Lake Legion (1007 – 7 Ave, Cold Lake, AB T9M 0C4).
Obituary respectfully submitted by the family.