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MERI SPITTLE Obituary
Our lovely mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital with grandson, Sean, by her side. Meri was 91 years young when suddenly diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Mom was a beautiful person, both inside and out. She never looked, nor acted her age. She had the most amazing energy and a spirit like no one else. She was loving, caring, kind, joyful, happy and just so much fun to spend time with.
Meri's parents - John and Meri Kenda - immigrated to Canada from Croatia with their son, Johnny, in 1923. Sophie and Meri were born later in Port Arthur, now Thunder Bay and lived in the neighbourhood called Current River. Meri was predeceased by them all. Meri began working part-time at age 11 at Boulevard Lake Concession and Matt's Store, and then full time there at age 15. She then worked at the "5 and Dime" (Kresge's), but banking was her main career until she took early retirement at age 55 from the Bank of Nova Scotia.
Meri met the love of her life, Bill (William) at Wild Goose Bay, on Lake Superior, just outside of Thunder Bay. They remained together for over 60 years as husband and wife until Bill passed in March 2020.
Meri is survived by: 2 children - Geralyn Devenish (Mark), Larry Spittle (Frances Chiappetta); 3 grandchildren - Sean Devenish (Whitney), Paul Devenish, Jaelan Prince (Ben Boxall); 4 great-grandchildren - Everett, Olivia, Leo and Rúna. Meri is also survived by former daughter-in-law Megan Prince, sister-in-law Barbara Glasgow, second cousins Marylyn Dallman (Earl), Greg Light, Donnah Rezka (Danny), Deborah Ventrudo and Catherine Szkudlarek. Nieces and nephews - Karen, Janet, Bill, Kathy, Paul, Dennis and their families.
Spending time with friends and family were most dear to Meri. She loved to have evenings and shopping trips with her dear friends Emma, Jeannette and Lida. Meri volunteered for the MS Society of Thunder Bay. Meri loved to listen to live bands and dance the night away. As recently as September she was up "shaking a leg" at the Oakville, Branch 114 Legion.
Special thanks to the following friends who helped to take care of Meri when she lived in Thunder Bay - her niece, Karen; friends, Lori & Ken Castonguay and Lenore & Del Smith. Thank you to the staff of 3North, Unit 1 at OTMH and Dr. Kazem for Mom's care during her brief palliative stay.
Cremation has taken place. Interment later this summer, with family and friends, when Meri can be laid to rest next to dear Dad (Bill) at Mountain View Cemetery.
Donations to St. Joseph's Foundation, 35 Algoma St. N., Thunder Bay P7B 5G7 would be wonderful.
Mom always loved angels. Now she is one. Love you Mom/Momma/Grandma/GMa/Great-grandma. Sleep peacefully. XOX
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for MERI SPITTLE
4 Entries
Sunny
February 9, 2024
May His almighty give strength to family to bear this loss, Deep condolences
Lisa Lee
February 5, 2024
So sorry Larry. My she rest in peace. Many memories from our younger years.
Lisa Lee (Adduono)
Sandy Beg
February 4, 2024
I am sorry to her of the passing of Meri. Her and Bill will always have a special place in my heart. Meri gave me a little Husky stuffy that was Bills and my grandson sleeps with it every night. When he brings it to my house I always think of them. Rest in peace Meri. Thanks for all the love and laughter. Love Sandy B.
Brian Adduono
February 3, 2024
My fondest memories of Meri are dancing with her: firstly, New Years Eve in the living room of Earle St. to Donna Summer singing "MacArthur Park;" and secondly, to "La Bamba" on the kitchen linoleum in the apartment in Thunder Bay. My most consistent memory, however, is of Meri's bubbly voice, happy energy, immediate smile, laughter, and caring nature: 'would you like an extra scarf, Brian, it's cold out?' : 'can I make you a sandwich?, Larry will just be a minute.' All my love to Larry, family and friends, and rest peacefully, Meri.
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