Ronald Eugene Spence, May 6, 1940 – April 6, 2026.
Ronald Eugene Spence, 85, of La Porte, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born May 6, 1940, in La Porte, IN, to Eugene and Helen (Brantley) Spence.
Ron graduated from Rolling Prairie High School in 1958 and served in the United States Navy shortly thereafter. He worked for Whirlpool Corporation for 35 years until his early retirement at the age of 56. On May 21, 1977, he married Joannie Weisjohn, whom he met at Whirlpool, and they shared nearly 49 years of beautiful marriage.
Ron will be remembered fondly by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was very social and friendly. Ron was always running into old friends or making new ones, so often that his grandkids viewed him as a “local celebrity.” Until his final days, he could be seen walking his dog Beau, working in his yard on his latest landscaping project, enjoying the view with his wife Joannie, or snacking on Pop-Tarts and graham crackers in his favorite recliner. Ron always looked forward to visits from his children and grandchildren and played a very influential role in their lives. Whether he was coaching or cheering on his grandsons in various sports or developing an appreciation for performing arts at his granddaughter’s show choir competitions, Ron was always a devoted supporter of the people he loved.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his oldest sister, Marlene Svetic.
Ron was survived by his wife, Joannie, for one day before her passing.
His legacy will be carried forward by his two daughters, Julie Kos (Steven) of La Porte and Carrie Spence (Karen) of Carmel, IN; three grandchildren, Steven Kos, Katie Spence, and William Spence; two sisters, Janet Sonnenberg of South Bend and Kathy Haenes of South Bend; many nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Ronnie; and his beloved dog, Beau.
A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at a later date. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd. La Porte, (219) 362-3100, is caring for the arrangements.
Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Jane Bernard Animal Adoption Center of LaPorte.
Also, in memory of Ron, it is our family’s wish that you will carry his spirit forward by being friendly and kind to everyone you meet. Wave to your neighbors, take the time to say hello to old friends in the grocery store and local restaurants, and always look for ways to brighten the days of those around you.
