We regret to advise of the death of Chief Warrant Officer Alvin Norman “Al” Spruce, CD (Ret’d), of Cold Lake, AB, on 1 October 2026, at the age of 89. Al served the Canadian Military Engineers for more than 38 years as a Combat Engineer with Airborne specialty.
Born in Ingersoll ON, Al joined the Royal Canadian Engineers at the age of 16 in 1953 with the 2nd Intake of the Sapper Apprentices. After completing his basic Sapper training at the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack BC in 1955, Al’s first posting was to 4 Field Squadron in Werl Germany - a unit he was eventually to serve as Regimental Sergeant Major.
Returning to Canada, Al served with 1 Field Squadron in Petawawa ON for 10 years before returning to Germany and serving for the second time with 4 Field Squadron. He returned to Canada in 1970, where he was first posted to 5 Régiment du génie de combat in Valcartier QC, followed by a Regular Support Staff posting with 3 Field Engineer Regiment in Montreal, QC.
Al was next posted to 1 Airborne Field Squadron in Edmonton AB, for a three-year tour, followed by a return to 1 Field Squadron in Petawawa (now named 2 Combat Engineer Regiment), where he became the Regimental Sergeant Major. Returning to Germany for the third time, Al was appointed Regimental Sergeant Major of 4 Combat Engineer Regiment (1982-84).
For his last posting, Al returned to Canada to Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake AB, where he served for 10 years. Retiring from the Regular Force and transferring to the Reserve Force, he supported the Cold Lake Cadet Camp for the next ten years.
In accordance with Al’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no funeral service will be held. If desired, donations may be made to the Cold Lake Legion (1007 - 7 Ave, Cold Lake, AB T9M 0C4). Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home.