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Michael Springer, 81, of Creston, died Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, at Clearview Home in Mount Ayr. Graveside memorial services will be held and announced in the spring at Bethesda Cemetery, north of Clarinda. Online condolences may given at the tribute wall at www.powersfh.com.
Michael Lester Springer was born July 8, 1940, to Lester and Joy (Nelson) Springer in Newton. He was the oldest of three children, with his brother Noel and sister Beth. Michael graduated from Newton High School in 1959 and went to study at the University of Iowa and Parsons College.
In 1963, he graduated with a degree in history which was one of his major passions. He began his career in welfare and social work after college. Michael and Lois Lenfesty were united in marriage in 1964. To this union two daughters were born, Susan and Sarah. The couple later divorced.
Michael began working at the State Mental Health Center in 1968 as the Assistant Director of Social Services and served there for 30 years. There he met Debra Renander and the two were united in marriage at Bethesda Lutheran Church in November of 1978. To this union two children were born, Jessica and Sam.
In the late 80s, Michael accepted a position with Crossroads Mental Health Center and the family moved to Creston.
Michael was a dynamic man. He was an avid reader, loved to draw and work crosswords. He had an affinity for trains and had a train room designated in the basement where he spent hours working on models and plans. He loved going to New Orleans every November and was able to take a memorable trip to see some of Europe’s history in person. He loved to tell stories and chat with people about their own lives. Life was never dull with Michael and he will be dearly missed.
Michael was preceded in death by his brother, Noel Springer; sister, Beth Minnihan and son Samuel Springer.
He is survived by his wife, Debra Springer; daughters: Jessica Duncan, Susan Meyer and Sarah Magnuson; grandchildren: Samuel Duncan, Cora Magnuson and Harrison Magnuson. Nephews Steve Minnihan and Seth Minnihan and niece Megan Torkelson.