Michael James "Spook" Spence

Michael James “Spook” Spence was born on June 30, 1977, in Cherokee, IA, the son of Edward and Diane (Reusch) Spence.  He was baptized at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cherokee, IA.  He spent most of his childhood in Cherokee, IA, graduating from Washington High School in 1996.

Michael worked at Tyson Foods in the meat processing department and later in the parts department for many years.  He later continued his education at Mount Marty College in Yankton, SD where he was on the Dean’s List. 

Michael was united in marriage to Lisa Dessel and to this union two children were born, Bode James and Delaina Marie Spence. They later divorced.

Michael enjoyed painting, watching scary movies, riding his motorcycle and bicycle.  He also enjoyed leisurely rides in his Camaro convertible and jeep.  Most of all, Michael enjoyed spending time with his children and friends. 

On March 19, 2023, Michael passed away from Alpha Antitrypsin Deficiency at the age of 45, in Sioux Falls, SD with his family surrounding him.  He was preceded in death by his sister, Jamie Spence; maternal grandparents, Albert and Margaret Reusch; paternal grandparents, William Spence Sr. and Roseleen Gribben Spence; nephew, Nicholas Spence; cousins, Bryan Trierweiler and Russell Spence; and Uncles, Timothy Reusch and Tony Trierweiler, Sr.; and one aunt, Judy Spence.

Michael is survived by his parents, Edward and Diane Spence; children, Bode and Delaina Spence; sister, Michelle (Bryan) Pedersen of Cherokee, IA; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends.