It is with sad and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Miklós “Nick” Springer on November 1st, 2022, at the age of 86. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at Extendicare Oshawa, where he resided for the past four years. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 58 years, Doret; beloved children Grant (Susan) and Gregory (Antonietta); and his adored and cherished grandchildren, Shantel, Tyson, Viktoria and Natalia.

Nick was born in Gyula, Hungary and survived the Hungarian Revolution in 1956. He escaped to Austria and then lived in Essen, Germany for one year before arriving in Winnipeg in 1957. He made his way to Oshawa in 1958. Nick was a millwright by trade and worked as a machine repairman (MR) at General Motors for 34 years.

He was a proud Canadian and a strong contributing presence in the community, and was a long-time member of the Oshawa Hungarian Culture Club. He established the Oshawa Turul Youth Soccer Club in 1971, and coached countless young soccer players over the years, who won many titles including two national championships. He is remembered fondly by all whom he coached for his heavy Hungarian accent and sarcastic one-liners. He is a member of the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame (1992).

Nick was a selfless and tireless giver of his time and energy to family, friends and the soccer community. His favourite hobbies were gardening and cooking, and Nick became famous for his Hungarian cabbage rolls. His presence and interactions etched lasting impressions on everyone he met, and has provided memorable stories that will continue to be shared for years to come.

Visitation will take place at Thornton Funeral Centre, 1200 Thornton Rd. N. in Oshawa, on Sunday, November 6th, 1:00 – 3:00pm and 4:00 – 6:00pm. A mass of remembrance will be held at St. Gertrude’s Catholic Church, 690 King St. E. in Oshawa, on Monday, November 7th, at 10:00am. A celebration of life reception will take place in the church hall immediately following the mass. If so desired, donations may be made to Parkinson Canada or Alzheimer Society of Canada.