Harold "Gene" E. Spence, 70, of Hermantown, passed on Sunday, March 28, 2021 at Solvay Hospice House.

Gene was born in Oregon, on July 23, 1950 to Harold and Olene Spence. He grew up on a variety of Air Force Bases and ended up in Duluth, MN. He went to Proctor High School and graduated in 1969. Gene and his beloved wife, Debbie, were married for 44 years. Gene loved his dog, Xena, the outdoors, and NASCAR racing.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah "Debbie" Spence; parents, Harold and Olene Spence; and brother-in-law, Don Roseen.

Gene is survived by his children, Ed (Leah) Spence, Christina (Chris) Dyer, and Shelby Spence; sister, Joyce Roseen; mother-in-law, Juellie Rienke; brother-in-law, Bill (Wendy) Wennberg; sisters-in-law, Julie (Mark) Honer and Amy (Rob) Rafferty; 6 grandchildren; 2 great-granddaughters; special friend, Jim Anderon; and numerous extended family members.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Solvay Hospice Home.

Public open-house visitation to be held from 3:00 – 5:00 PM on Wednesday, April 7th at Sunrise Funeral Home, 4798 Miller Trunk Hwy, with a private family service prior. Reception at 6:00 PM at the Pitstop in Proctor following the visitation. Memorial donations may be made to Solvay Hospice Home, 801 Baylis Street Duluth, MN 55811.