On August 27, 2020, the Ballhockey.com community unfortunately lost long-time member and passionate player Eric Spiece. Eric was well known to the majority of players around the rink from playing on multiple teams each season (most notably the Wolverines and One Timers), as well as having previously refereed for the Niagara Ball Hockey Club. Eric was a very competitive player on the rink, but never let that get the better of him, always playing with a smile on his face and enjoying the social aspect of the game more than the game itself. There is not one opponent of Eric’s that will miss having to chase him around the rink, but every single one will miss the energy and comradery he brought to the rink at each and every game. In honour of Eric, the Originals division at the Niagara Ball Hockey Club will now be known as Division 22 (For those unfamiliar, Eric wore jersey number 22). Eric was the one player who most exemplified what this division is all about, and will truly be missed.
Eric’s Obituary:
Spiece, Eric - It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Eric Richard Spiece on August 27, 2020. Eric leaves an aching hole in his family and friends. Eric is the eldest son of Rick and Sharon, loving brother to Curtis (Tiffany) and Cameron. Funny uncle to Aubrey and Quinten. Lovingly remembered by Gillian. Eric was the beloved grandson of Arnold and Kathy Spiece of Vineland, and Ernie and Charlotte Chiola of Fonthill. He will forever be remembered by his many aunts, uncles, cousins and large extended family. His best buddy Forest will always be waiting for Eric to take him for his walk.
Eric’s true calling was being an Arborist and he would talk of trees to anyone that would listen. The same is true of hockey and his beloved Toronto Maple Leafs.
Family and friends will be received at Tallman’s Funeral Home, 3277 King Street, Vineland, ON, on Sunday September 27, 2020 at 6:00 – 8:00 pm. Due to Covid restrictions, masks will be required to enter the funeral home and all physical distancing rules will apply. As well, a private family memorial will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made to OGUTS (Ontario Growing Up Through Sports), a charity near and dear to Eric’s heart.
Please visit https://www.oguts.net/ for information about this organization or to donate.
DONATIONS CAN BE MADE TO OGUTS (ONTARIO GROWING UP THROUGH SPORTS) AND WILL PROVIDE ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED YOUTH THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY THE GAME THAT ERIC LOVED.