Franklin Dale Spence Sr.

Franklin Dale Spence Sr., passed away on June 12, 2025, of natural causes. 

He was born Feb. 19, 1951 in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to Herbert and Shirley Spence. 

Frank joined the Army in 1968. He was a very proud, outspoken Vietnam Veteran. He spent 14 months and 11 days, boots on the ground, detached to the 3rd Marine Division.

Upon his return from Vietnam he met Linda Swigart. Frank and Linda married Nov. 13, 1973, and were married for 52 years. While living in Arizona, Frank graduated college and went to work as a diesel mechanic for Hecla Mining Co. 

In 1983, Frank transferred and went to work at the Asarco mine outside of Troy, Montana. A few years later, in 1987, he decided to move the family from Angel Island to Libby, where he opened a gunsmithing business. While running the gun shop with his wife, Frank was employed by Stimson Lumber Co. 

He later worked and retired from Timberline Auto. Retirement was where Frank was the happiest! He enjoyed time with his children and grandkids. 

He and Linda were also able to pursue their love of riding Harley Davidsons. They put thousands of miles on their bikes and met many good friends along the way. Frank had not missed a Sturgis Rally in 17 years.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; his step-dad William R. Cheney; older sister Kathleen Blahnik; younger brother Ty Cheney; niece Jennifer Tapia; and nephews Frankie and Ricky Smith. Frank is survived by his wife Linda Spence; daughter Alicia Green (Derek); sons Frank Spence Jr. (Leisa) and Jason Spence (Jaime); brother Bill Cheney (Sandra); sister Kim Mendoza; grandchildren: Makenna, Regan, Abigail, Lilly, Ryder, Lola and Keeli; many nieces and nephews and great friends.

Per Frank's wishes there will be no formal service, the family has had a private celebration of his life. 

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby. Online condolences and memories may be shared be visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.