CTV Calgary Meteorologist David Spence Announces His Retirement

Tags: @CTVCalgary; @CTVDavidSpence

CALGARY (May 26, 2021) – After starting his TV broadcasting career more than 40 years ago at CTV News Calgary, David Spence is announcing he will retire from his post as CTV Calgary Chief Meteorologist in the fall of 2021.

“It is with true mixed feelings that I end my career by leaving the best news team I’ve worked with in all these years,” said Spence. “In 2012, I was diagnosed with intermediate prostate cancer, and it made me realize that life and health ought not to be taken for granted. I am healthy again. No one knows how long that will last. So, at 61 years old, I believe it’s best for me to step down in order to enjoy good health in my retirement as long as possible. My decision comes after a lot of thought and reflection on a successful, fun career. In short, it’s been a dream job.”

Spence began his career in 1979 as a DJ at a BC radio station, and made the switch to news a year later. He joined CFCN Calgary in 1981, and left to work in Winnipeg for several years before returning to CTV News Calgary. He became the main weather anchor for the station in 1992.

During his tenure at CTV, Spence has been celebrated consistently as Calgary’s favourite television personality. In 2017, he was honoured with an RTDNA Lifetime Achievement Award. In April 2021, Spence celebrated the 40^th anniversary of his first weathercast at CTV News Calgary.

“David Spence’s character, dedication, and professionalism are simply unmatched, and he departs our station at the very top of his craft,” said Jeff Little, Director of News and Public Affairs, CTV Calgary. “David is sharp, consistent, and always makes the weather understandable and entertaining for our viewers.”

“David has been a mentor to many of us, and we are so thankful to have worked alongside him,” added Little. “On behalf of everyone here at CTV News Calgary, and all who have had the pleasure to work with David in both TV and radio, we thank him for his leadership, friendship, and the impact he has made on the Canadian broadcasting landscape.”

Widely recognized as one of the most accurate meteorologists in Canada, Spence has been a steady, reassuring on air presence in a city, and province, known for some of the wildest weather in the country. From the deadly Pine Lake tornado in July 2000 to the devastating Calgary flood of 2013, Spence has covered some of the country’s most significant weather events.

Spence has also given his time to many charitable organizations and helped raise the profile of prostate cancer research in Calgary. He took on the cause – and memorably shaved off his signature moustache on live television – after sharing his prostate cancer diagnosis with viewers.

Spence’s dedication to CTV Calgary’s “Weather in the Classroom” talks have made a significant contribution to the Grade 5 curriculum across the city, sparking inquisitive minds and future careers.