After 93 years of an indomitable presence, Alice died peacefully in Victoria, BC. on April 29, 2020. A complex, intellectual and intelligent woman, Alice left an impression on everyone she met. She was a strong, tough, caring, feisty and witty woman of conviction. Known for speaking her mind, Alice cared deeply about human and civil rights, the environment, and her children.
Born on a farm just outside of Watrous, Saskatchewan, Alice’s mother tragically died during her birth. She grew up with her aunt and uncle (Frank and Florence Wilkinson) in Saskatoon and her four cousins/brothers. She also spent much of her time on the farm with her father (William McNeish) and two beloved older sisters, now deceased. Alice (aka Allie) spoke frequently of her very happy childhood and her love for her two families.
In 1944, Alice moved to Toronto to study art. There, she met her “first” (as she loved to say) husband, Tom Spaulding, as well as many life-long friends. Alice worked as an animator for the National Film Board, an entomological and botanical artist for Ottawa’s experimental farm, and continued to paint, draw and sometimes teach art until several years before her death. After moving to Winnipeg in 1981 to be with her “second” husband and high school sweetheart, Bob Berry, Alice became a member of the Manitoba Society of Artists and the Winnipeg Sketch Club.
In 1994, right after moving to Victoria, Alice lost her beloved Bob. She remained in Victoria and became active in her new community. She adored tennis, was involved with her neighborhood block watch, the Gordon Head Gardening Club, various art groups, a hiking group, and eventually Goward House and the Monterey Centre. Alice loved music, theatre, art, travelling and visits with her children and grandchildren.
Alice will be deeply missed by her children: Betsy (Kathi), William (Lesley), Rebecca (Chad), Neil; her grandchildren: Hannah (Tim), Skye (Wes), Griffin; her brother Bob Wilkinson; and her many friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mustard Seed, Victoria. https://mustardseed.ca/donate-to-the-mustard-seed
Messages and condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
16 Responses
I remember Alice fondly from tennis years ago, she was a very spunky lady! I’m thinking it was at Deer Lodge Tennis. She had such an interesting life! Sending heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your dear Mom.Jane (Heap) Romaniuk Winnipeg, Manitoba
I met Alice through the hiking group and was so sad to hear of her passing. We connected as when she was in England she lived close to where I was born and grew up I loved talking to her she had led such an interesting life and I always wished I had known her longer.I know she loved her family very much and it will be a great loss to you.
While I & wife Stephanie were not able to visit SISTER very much, she was in our thoughts many times.
Our love to all of you. Bob.
Alice was definitely one of a kind! We had many wonderful visits and always came away knowing more than when we came. We know how much Alice cherished her children and they in turn cherished her.We will always be thankful for having known her. Bob was lucky to have her as an ‘added’ sister to his family.
My heartfelt condolences to your family. Alice was one of the nicest and most genuine people I have ever met. I have such fond memories of growing up with such a lovely neighbour, our chats, and her generosity. She was one of those people you feel ever so grateful for getting the opportunity to know.
Dear Spaulding family, my deepest condolences on the loss of your mother. I have enjoyed Neil’s tales of her over the many years I have known him, and was lucky enough to meet her once or twice when she visited him in Toronto. A wonderful lady, who led a remarkable life.
Best wishes,
Christian Sharpe
Dear Neil and family,
Thinking of you at this sad time. Your Mother had an extraordinary life and I know how much you cared for her and will miss her dearly.
Jane and family
My deepest sympathies to Betsy (my former office-mate at Kwantlen — such a devoted and caring daughter to her mum), as well as to dear Hannah, Kathi, and all of you who are grieving the loss of someone so dear. May you be comforted in knowing that she was loved so dearly and that she is at peace now.
Hello, everyone. Thank you for the privilege of knowing your mom and having the opportunity to assist her . I loved your mom and I will miss seeing all of you. She loved you all so much and would sometimes weep when recalling a special time with each of you.
We were so sorry to hear of Auntie Allie’s passing. Our sincere condolences to everyone who knew and loved her.
This is a lovely and very accurate Memorial of Auntie Allie. It also taught me several things I didn’t know about her!
Allie was a very special lady and she will sorely missed!
Carolyn (youngest daughter of Stan and May Wilkinson) and Darryl Schmidt