Thursday, September 30, 2021
I first met Herb Spence in 1968. Herb wanted to transform an old barn and farmhouse into a camp to serve the children he taught in Bible clubs. I heard about it at my church and traveled from Michigan with some high school boys to help out during Easter vacation week. I don't know that we accomplished much, but it introduced me to someone special. I found Herb to be a man of faith, vision and perseverance (with the occasional corny joke thrown in). He loved the outdoors, but most of all he loved Jesus and wanted to share that love with others. I was amazed at Herb's tenacity in pursuing his vision of a camp. Many times I thought the dream was over, but Herb, along with his dear wife Phyllis, never gave up despite setbacks, lack of funds and ever changing regulations. Herb had the vision and paved the way for others to carry on, and Camp Mandaville's ministry continues to this day.
After I married my wife, Joann, we decided together to visit Herb and Phyllis for a day or two while on vacation in the early 1970's. As we got closer I felt drawn to the place. Looking back, I'm sure it was the Lord. Joann immediately felt at home and we decided to stay for the rest of our vacation time to help with the camp property. For a number of years we spent a vacation week at Camp Mandaville, first assisting with preparations, and later on participating as leaders in the program. As our friendship with Herb and Phyllis grew, we shared dreams, hopes, laughter, sadness, disappointments and most of all, prayer.
In more recent times, our visits to the north country have become yearly highlights. We couldn't make it in 2020 due to Covid, but our visit with Herb and Phyllis this last June was special. His caregivers were wonderful. Even though Herb was not having a good day, the time was precious, especially since we knew it would probably be the last time we would be with him in this life. Herb wasn't afraid to die and looked forward to seeing Jesus face to face. What a blessed hope!! But we do grieve. That is part of our earthly existence. Our prayers and thoughts go out to Phyllis, Steve, Linda and all the grand and great grand children. -- Doug & Joann Blake
