He was born March 23, 1940, in Idaho Falls, to Lynn Spence Barker and Vera Valeria Andrus. He grew up in Shelley and graduated from Shelley High School in 1958. He earned an Associate of Science degree from Ricks College; a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Brigham Young University and a certificate in Chemistry also from BYU.

On June 6, 1962, he married Ruth Edna George in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple.

He worked his entire career at Argonne National Lab West, starting as a junior technician, and over the course of thirty-five years, moving through a succession of positions in the analytical lab. He retired as a senior scientist.

He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he held many positions including ward or membership clerk under eight Bishops, Varsity Scout leader and stake computer specialist. As a young man he served a mission to the Eastern Atlantic States Mission.

Upon retiring, he became a volunteer for the Family Assistance in Transitional Housing.

He enjoyed HAM radio,photography, computer programing, home repairs, and scripture study.

Notwithstanding tremendous health difficulties for most of his life, Spence gave his all as a loving husband, father, son, professional chemist, active ward member, and as a faithful and committed Christian.

He is survived byhis wife, Ruth G. Barker of Idaho Falls; sons: Jeff Barker of Ammon; Devan (Heidi) Barker of Sugar City; Greg S. (Memori) Barker of Elko, NV; Michael J. (Michele) Barker of Nixa, MO; daughter, Janae (McKay) Larsen of Fairview, UT; parents, Lynn S. and Vera A. Barker of Shelley; sisters: Valeria (Dell) Saunders of Arlington, VA; Annette (Ralph) Olsen of Orem, UT; and Dorothy Barker of Salt Lake City; and 16 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Crystalyn Larsen.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008, at the Kearney LDS 2nd Ward Chapel, 1860 Kearney in Idaho Falls, with Bishop Frank Plain officiating. The family will visit with friends from 7-9:00 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 2008, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St., Idaho Falls, and one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in the Ucon cemetery.

The family suggests that memorial contributions may be made in Spence's name to a charity of your own choice.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com .

Map to Ucon Cemetery

Map to Church