J. Ernest Spencer unexpectedly passed away in Davidson, on Father’s Day, June 21, 2026, at the age of 83.
Ernie, the first son of George and Violet Spencer, was born on December 7, 1942 in Craik. Ernie’s younger years were filled with time on the farm with his brothers, 4-H, band and good times with cousins. There are many stories of the shenanigans experienced with not only the Pound’s and the Sloan’s, but also with many of the neighbourhood kids too.
Ernie attended the University of Saskatchewan, graduating with Distinction, from the College of Agriculture in 1965 with a degree in Animal Science. After his college graduation, Ernie worked for the Government of Saskatchewan in the Department of Agriculture as an Animal Science Specialist. During this time, he was also working towards his Masters Degree, obtaining that in 1969. It was after his Masters, that Ernie took on the position of the Director of the Research Feed Testing Lab at the University of Saskatchewan. Ernie was the first director of that new program and took great pride in the work that was done there. In 1973, the family moved to Regina, where Ernie became the Assistant Deputy Minister of Agriculture. Ernie remained a very active part of the agriculture community, attending almost all of the SAGA reunions. He always enjoyed those times of re-connection with classmates.
Ernie’s passion for farming and land took him back to his farming roots in the late 1970’s. He rented some land north of Raymore and commuted to farm for the first two years, jumping in with both feet in 1979, when he moved the family to a farm near Quinton, beginning the challenges of farming full time. Ernie loved working the land, and also loved his animals. Over the years, there were cattle, pigs and even sheep. While farming, he continued to serve his communities by giving back. Ernie was an active member of Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church and church council, as well, he was a member of the Optimist Club, he was a councillor and the Reeve of the RM of Kutawa.
While farming, he continued to undertake overseas trips for the Department of Agriculture, assisting in the set up and management of feedlots. In the early 1990’s, he came back to the Department of Agriculture to work, renting out the farm land, and eventually selling the land, to return to work in Agriculture. Ernie worked in Regina and eventually in Saskatoon with the University, before he retired. He returned to his roots and his home community of Craik, where he served on the Town Council and was a member of the Museum Committee.
Ernie passed his love of country music and talk radio on to his children, and even some of his grandkids. He took time to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events when he was able, even if it meant cheering against Craik, and he was extremely proud of their love of agriculture and their choices in pursuing agriculture in their studies and employment.
Ernie is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Lori Ann and Murray Frey, and their children Clay (Kloey), Rayner and Shylo, his son Michael Spencer and grandson Zackary.
He is also survived by the mother of his children, Marilyn Stobbs, his special uncle, Jim Sloan (Elaine), sister in laws Arlette Spencer and Wilma Spencer, numerous nieces and nephews, and many special cousins. Ernie was pre-deceased by his parents, George and Violet Spencer, as well as brothers David and Hilton.
Cremation has taken place. A service to celebrate Ernie’s life will be held at a later date with a reception and time of sharing for all who loved Ernie and shared in his life.
In lieu of flowers or condolences for the family, donations can be made to the Craik Pioneer Museum.
