Obituary of Irvin Elmo Springer

It is with heavy hearts, surrounded by God’s comfort, that we announce that Our Beloved Irvin Elmo Springer has gone home to be in the presence of the Lord on Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, at 87 years old.

He lived an incredible life where he deeply loved and was deeply loved by his family and friends as a remarkable Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-grandfather, Friend, Uncle and so much more. He fulfilled his roles on this earth wholeheartedly, consistently, and with kindness. He worshiped the lord fully and inspired our walks with God even to the last week of his time here on earth. His parents laid a strong foundation for his faith, as they raised him in the church, and he deepened his walk with God over time. At the end of his life, he would often be found singing hymns and being moved by the presence of the Lord, with a clear sensitivity to the Spirit.

Irvin Elmo Springer was born in Chalky Mount, St. Andrew, Barbados to Hurdle Springer and Eva Springer (Devonish). Some of his family’s surnames are Foster, Stewart, Thomas, Gill, and Devonish. He was a part of a large family of 8 children and his two loving parents. Irvin is survived by his Beloved Brothers Glen Springer and Anthony Springer, and his sister Joyce Springer. We remember his sisters and brothers he loved dearly, who he is reunited with in heaven: Lester Springer, Hazel Springer, Cynthia Springer, and Sheila Springer. He is also survived by his loving wife Mildred Springer who were by each other’s side for over 70 beautiful years where they shared a full life together with laugher, dancing, rich celebrations and selfless acts of kindness to their community.

Irvin is survived by his daughter Beverley Durakovic, and his sons, Tyrone Springer, and Jerry Springer. We recognize the supportive role of their partners Reggie Durakovic, Joanne Skal, and Debby Springer. Irvin had many grandchildren he enjoyed having around: Vanessa Truelove, Dervis Durakovic, Tyson Truelove, Kelvin Springer, Keon Springer, Reggil Durakovic, Ramsey Durakovic, Tyrone Junior, Elysha Springer, Malcolm Springer and his great-grandchildren: Aisha Lewis, Kiara Green, Yumi and Daniel.

We recognize his beautiful nieces Sandra McKenchnie, Julia Springer, Anne Borsohalmi., and Mia Santini and his nephew Phillip Milon. His cousin Erton Foster is another pillar of our family who shares his ancestry knowledge. We also recognize his other family members, friends, and dear friends such as Dick Morris, Tony, Lemmy, and Grantley. We recognize his family friends and the Bajan community who grew up knowing him and checked on him and Mildred over the years. The Moore family deeply loved him such as Roy/Frank Moore, Ian Hadley, Linda Moore, Bev Moore, Michael Moore, Roy Moore, and Frankie. He also leaves behind many amazing friends and community members such as the residents and care team at Macassa Lodge who kept him vibrant, supported, and positive in hard times.

Irvin often reminisced about his journey sailing the 7 seas and his extensive travel while being a Chief Chef cook for Harrison Line Ships. He finished his career as a dedicated welder. He embodied the fruits of the spirit which spilled into his work and the strong relationships he built there, such as his lifelong Best friend Ivan Jordan.

Irvin continued his walk with God over the course of his time in Barbados and Canada up to his time in his Macassa lodge community where he deepened his relationship with God, as he sang hymns, attended service, and formed meaningful friendships. He often remarked of God’s blessings and wholeheartedly believed in God’s miracles and the power of the name of Jesus. He gave back to his neighbourhood with acts of service, warm greetings, and opened his home as a gathering place where he made you feel at home. Irvin’s presence itself embodied home and safety, as he was a protector and anchor in our family.

He was a kind, selfless and dedicated man who shared many stories, rich elements of Bajan culture, and hilarious jokes. He had a playful and lively personality and shined his light in the darkest of days. He was a pillar of the family and was at the centre of our gathering fostering a sense of togetherness and wholeness. He exemplified sacrificial and endless love as he cared for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a father figure to many and showed up consistently.

We are holding a viewing to meet and fellowship with one another and receive comfort and strength. The viewing will be held at Donald V. Brown Funeral Home, 36 Lake Avenue Drive, Stoney Creek, ON from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, February 21, 2025. We look forward to seeing you and would love for you to connect and share memories with others there.

Please join us in celebration of the great life he lived and the gift of his ascension into eternity on Saturday, February 22nd at 10 a.m. at Victory International Church, 2799 Barton Street East in Hamilton, ON., as we gather in God’s comfort and peace knowing absent from the body is present with the Lord.