Cameron 'Ronie' Spencer Lighthouse Keeper
Ronnie and Chrissie his sister
Ronnie tips one after returning from the Walker House in July 3rd or 4th, 1948. The man with him is Gordon Hamacher on his honeymoon.
Here is Ronie's Obituary as it appeared in the Beacon.
Last week the light went out in the life of a man known as 'The Lamplighter'. Cameron Inkster Spencer was teh last Lighthouse Keeper on Chantry Island before the automatic electric service was installed.
Mr Spencer died Aug. 4th in Southampton Nursing Home where he had resided since the death of his sister Mrs. Fields. He was born in 1889
'Ronie' as he was known far and wide, (the name derived from the last three letters of his Christian name) is recalled by all as a "Great Guy". As one relative said the scope of friendship was revealed once he became ill.
He served in the First World War 1914-1918 as a Lance Corporal with the Second Pioneer 160th Bruce Battalion. There are believed only five remaining members of the group.
Ronie was a sports enthusiast and at an early age was making a name for himself in the field of baseball.
He was a great pitcher and coach of the Southampton Fisherman's Ball Team when the won the all Ontario Championship in 1931-32 and 33. He also coached other teams in South after 1947. All sports gave him pleasure and he followed the teams eagerly.
He took over as Lighthouse Keeper after Clayton Knechtel retired. Many old-timers recall his often perilous trips back to the Island after a day in town.
When he retired he lived in a lakefront cottage at the rear of 'Aunt Annies', (where All McGuire now lives). When Mac Fields died he moved in with his sister.
One local resident recalls the year they had to chip the ice as they traveled to the Island to get Ronie off before winter set in. Others recall watching the light flicker on after Ronie took off for Chantry. He never missed - although on occasion due to bad weather - the Light may have flickered on a little late.
He was friendly and widely known over Bruce and the surrounding area.
A special Memorial Service for members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Southampton, was held Aug. 5. Mr. Spencer is buried in Southampton Cemetery.
Among survivors is a niece, Mrs. John Northey of Scarborough.
While in the Nursing Home he maintained his cheery manner, despite suffering a bout with pneumonia this past year.
As the light continues to flicker for modern day sailors - there are many who will recall the days of Ronie - The Lamplighter - with affection and respect. The Beacon joins in a tribute to a true old-timer of 'South'.
(Beacon) Editor's Note: (The Beacon is grateful to Ken Goar and Miss Connie Gillies for helpful information)
(Ronie was born in Fort George, James Bay, March 24th, 1889 and died in 1975, I believe)
Army Service:
Entered the Canadian Army on 29th of January, 1916 serving in Canada, England and France.
Discharged on the 29th of May, 1919
Medals: British War & Victory Medal
Height: 5'4"
Complexion: Dark
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Black
H.Q. 649-5-41458 (??)
Age: 30
Hair: Black
Conduct & Character while in Service: Good.
Military Occupation: Sapper.
He received a letter from King George
