Steve (Istvan) Ferenc Meszaros

Following a lengthy battle with cancer, Steve passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and children on February 8, 2022, shortly after his 74th birthday. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Klara, his wife of 52 years, children Kathryn (Mark) and Steve (Anne), grandchildren Maya, Olivia, Alex, and Theo, his brother Peter (Janice), and his extended family and many friends and colleagues. He was predeceased by his parents, Istvan and Iren Meszaros.

Steve was born in Hungary and emigrated to Winnipeg when he was 10 years old with his parents and his younger brother, Peter. He attended St. John’s High School where he excelled in academics and athletics. He had a passion for soccer and was a fierce and talented competitor. One of his many soccer accomplishments was being chosen for the Manitoba Selects Soccer Team who won the Canadian National Championship in 1970 and was inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 2013.

While attending the University of Manitoba, Steve married Klara, his high school sweetheart, and started a family. He completed a Bachelor of Science (microbiology) and Bachelor of Education, followed a few years later by a Master of Education degree where he specialized in Educational Administration. He started his career as a teacher in Powerview School and Beausejour Elementary before becoming Principal at Powerview School in 1977. He spent 19 years in Powerview, working and raising his family, then transferred to be the Principal of Edward Schreyer School in Beausejour in 1996 where he spent the last 7 years of his career. After retirement, he and Klara went overseas to work at Clifford School in Guangzhou China for two years where they enjoyed many adventures exploring southeast Asia. Upon their return to Canada, they re-settled in Winnipeg to be closer to family and to enjoy retirement.

Although he had a life filled with work and activities, he always enjoyed spending time with his family and was excited to see his grandchildren whenever possible.

Over the years he owned several motorcycles, a hobby that he shared with his brother. In his last year, he fulfilled a bucket list wish when he bought a Can-Am Spyder motorcycle which he enjoyed riding until the fall weather was no longer favourable.

In addition to soccer, Steve’s favourite activities included sailing, international folk dancing and music, badminton, and pickleball. He coached, taught, and volunteered his time to these activities and made many friends along the way.

Steve touched the lives of many people throughout his life through his career and hobbies. Known for his smile and friendly demeanor, he was always happy to help and encourage those around him and share his expertise. He also enjoyed sharing a drink, doughnut, cinnamon bun, or ice cream with friends.

He was looking forward to sailing and drinks in the afterlife with friends that had passed before him.

As per Steve’s wishes, there are no plans for a celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cancer Care Manitoba or your favourite charity.

On behalf of Steve, the family would like to thank the nurses and doctors from the WRHA Palliative Care Team and Cancer Care Manitoba for their excellent support.