David Charles Steele, age 92, of Shelby, passed away Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Crestwood Care Center. He was born on October 26, 1931, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late Kathryn Rose (Close) and Charles Gaylord Steele.
David was a veteran of the US Marine Corps, proudly serving during the Korean War. He earned many commendations including the Korean Service Medal, National Defense Medal, United National Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal. On June 13, 1953, he married Janice Ann Beal and they shared over 50 years of marriage until her passing in 2003. David later married Mary L. Hicks.
Fishing, watching dirt track races, football and gambling were some of his favorite pastimes. He was an athlete in his high school years, playing on the football team. David liked to joke that he kept the beer companies in business, and he did enjoy a cold one or two.
David is survived by his wife, Mary L. Steele; two sons, David (Debbie) Steele II and Mark (Lori) Steele; a daughter, Beth Ann Steele; two step children, John Steele and Cindy (Jeff) Dill; four grandchildren, David C. (Allison) Steele III, Dustin L. (Steph) Steele, Mark J. Steele, and Marrissa L. Kirk; step grandchild, Dan (Cara) Rasnic; eleven great-grandchildren; a sister, Charlene Haviland.
In addition to his parents and first wife, he was preceded in death by a great-granddaughter, Everleigh Steele; one brother; and two sisters.
A graveside service will be held in Oak Grove Memorial Park at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in honor of the brave and unselfish service of our many brave veterans including David. Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario is honored to serve the family.
