Unexpectedly, Roger passed away on Friday, June 25, 2021 at his retirement home, The Victorian on Feltham in Victoria, BC. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Prim Spidell (Heckley) and three children, Matthew (Anjia), Jennifer Tims and Jane Spidell. He also leaves behind his beautiful grand daughters who he cherished dearly, Clara and Amelia Leney and Rebecca Tims as well as his step grandson Cody Ding and his dear friend Anna Marie Mallard along with his four-legged best friends Jax, Daisy and Nova. Roger will also be missed by his sister-in-law, Avice Heckley, his nephews Stewart, Kent, Derek and niece Cavelle and their families.
Roger was born in Barss Corner, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia on January 31, 1931 to Minnie and Edward Spidell. He was one of four children and is survived by his sister Inez Lutz, and nieces Twyla (Richard) and Kristal (John), and Karen (Robin) and Iris Charlton and families. He is pre deceased by his brother Calvin, and sister Lois Charlton of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia as well as his adventurous brother-in-law and friend, Ramsey Heckley of Jasper, Alberta.
Roger left Barss Corner 72 years ago to join the RCMP on May 4, 1949. He went from Halifax to Regina with $10 in his pocket and a little brown bag to start his service to Canada. After his graduation at Depot, his first posting was to Toronto, and later to Fort Smith in the Northwest Territories. His future transfers included, Edmonton, St John and Fredericton New Brunswick, and back to Edmonton where he retired a S/Sgt in 1979 after 29 years of service. He then took a position with the Alberta Gaming Control and fully retired after 14 years.
During his years in the Force and with the Alberta Government, and within his communities, he made many long lasting and meaningful friendships, many of whom he stayed in touch with regularly. He enjoyed big game hunting, snowmobiling, playing cards, was quick witted, an avid reader, intent listener who enjoyed conversations with all fellowship. He was a gentle soul and appreciated all that life had to offer.
Roger loved to drive, and he and Prim made many memorable trips across Canada from Alberta to Ontario and on to the Maritimes and back. Roger and Prim relocated to Victoria, BC in 2011 where they enjoyed visiting with long time friends, enjoying tea and the scenery at Cattle Point, Turkey Head and Clover Point as well as many drives up and down the Island.
Roger had a keen interest in current events and politics around the world. He loved music of all genres, attended the Arts and got out to many public events with his family and friends. The family wishes to thank the staff and residents of the Victorian, Dr. Rideout, Dr Yang and Dr Rajala who provided Roger’s health care while in Victoria.
Cremation has taken place and no celebration of life is currently planned. In lieu of flowers, please share a toast with a loved one and remember Roger with a story.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Ellen Ryan Sullivan
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Tetje Prim, so sorry to hear of your loss. Was always such a joy to see you two at the office. Have often thought of you both. If you ever want to meet up please don’t hesitate to let me know.
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Valarie DeLong Doré My dad, Harry DeLong grew up with Roger in Barss Corner, Nova Scotia. Our families were also in Fredericton at the same time.
My parents would very much like to have contact with Prim, they have been trying to for the last few years unsuccessfully.
We are so sorry to read the obituary in the paper here in Nova Scotia.
Harry and Pauline DeLong (contact information emailed to family)
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Diana Olsen Roger was the father of my friend Jane, and he became my family’s friend. You couldn’t know him and not consider him a friend. He had a gentle and caring demeanour, you could feel his sincerity and his genuine interest in our lives and well being. My condolences to Prim, Matthew, Jennifer, Jane, Clara, Amelia, Rebecca and all those who loved him. Sincerely, Diana, Annabelle and Tom
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Carla Meyer Dear Prim and family,
It is with great sadness that I heard from Faye of Roger’s passing. My memory of Roger is a genuinely caring person and I can’t imagine how difficult this time is for you and your family.
My sincere condolences.
Affectionately
Carla Meyer
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Marlean Rhodenizer Prim and family, One of Nova Scotia’s finest went home to glory leaving behind a host of
relatives and friend here, many of us unknown to you. His parents lived near me,
and Roger’s mother was a sister to my grandfather Bertram Spidle. We followed
through news items, Roger’s career, and his welcome here was affectionate. We
were proud of his accomplishments. To all of you we send our sincere sympathy
in his passing. Cousin Marlean (Taylor) Rhodenizer, and family, Barss Corner, NS.
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Marj Cooper It’s so hard to realize that it’s been 65 years since you were my ‘boss’ at AMA and you
were dating Roger!!Living just down the lane from each other while growing up and feeling so proud of our Moms
as they pursued their wonderful music over many years has been awesome.It has been such a treat to see you both at “Jasper Daze” over the years as well as doing
all the reminiscing with you.My thoughts and love are with you and your family at this time, Prim. Much love, Marj
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Garry Heckley We are sorry to hear of your loss Prim. Our thoughts and prayers are with you . May he Rest In Peace.
Garry and Jodi Heckley
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Rosina and Paul Richard What a lovely tribute to Roger. We had the privilege of meeting Roger and Prim a few years ago while visiting Victoria. What a lovely man with a quick wit and such kind eyes.
To a life well lived!
Rosina and Paul Richard
DEAREST Prim, Matt, Jenny and Jane. Only good happy thoughts come to mind when I think of Roger. Manawagonish Road in SJ and Coventry Crescent in Fredericton with all of you will always be near and dear to my heart! Sending many hugs and prayers to all of you. Ellen ( and Richard )