Richard Evan Steele passed away on June 14, 2021, at the age of 79, knowing he was loved. Richard was born on March 30, 1942, to Louis Francis and Hazel Steele, in Iola, Kansas. Richard attended Maryland University in Japan. He then spent 4 years in the United States Air Force, and moved back home to Wichita, KS, with his new bride, Marsha Hinesly Steele. Richard and Marsha were married on February 15, 1966, AND March 12, 1966. There’s a funny story behind that. Suffice to say Richard loved her so much, he married her twice. In Wichita, he worked as a systems analyst, and retired in 2011. Richard loved to hunt, fish and camp, trekking at least once or twice a year to Roaring River State Park in Cassville, MO. Richard spent a lot of time there with his family, and the spot is still favored by his wife, children and grandchildren. Richard and Marsha purchased the home he grew up in, just north of Wichita, and raised their children there for many years, raising chickens and bird dogs (which don’t work well together), and cultivating a large garden the family worked on (whether they wanted to or not). While the property was only 2 acres, the garden was 10 acres, or so it seemed to his children. Richard was known for his work ethic, working up to 80 hours a week, to support his family. Above all, Richard was a family man. His children fondly remember being tickled until they could no longer stand it, playing hide and seek, baseball in the yard, board games, rubber band fights, and much more. All that remember him expressed memories of him being so much fun. Richard also played on a bowling league and received an award for bowling a perfect game, with a score of 300. These are just a few of the things he was known for. His family wants you to know that he was so much more than this, and there is not a way to describe him in just a few words.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Marsha, of 55 years; children – Kerin (Fred) Hunt, Elaina Nix, Richard (Starla) Steele II, and Susan (Paul) Wikoff; 18 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren; sisters Mary Gordon, Joyce Lindholm, Sally Koelling and Betty Jo Hodley; and brother Charlie Gordon. He was preceded in death by his father, Louis Francis Steele; mother – Hazel Gordon; brothers Roger Steele, John Gordon and Fred Steele. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 19 at 4 pm, at Cabot Apostolic Church, 700 Bill Foster Memorial Highway, in Cabot, Arkansas.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Lisa Stafford, Sharon Herring, Ashley Moody, Tanya Adams, Kay Johnson and Brandy Johnson – the caregiver team that was with him to the end. You are family.
Arrangements entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400
8 Comments
Uncle Richard was just FUN. We ALL loved him and you could not help but enjoy his company.
We love you, uncle Rick
Mr. Steele was a character, he reminded me of my own grandparents! He loved joking around. He loved listening to a good story, he actually enjoyed listening to “Hank the cow dog”. I’m sure he will be missed terribly! Sis Steele and Sis Eliana and family we know there will be a big hole left behind, but you can cherish these wonderful memories. I’m sure in the days to come you will laugh and cry remembering him!
I was one of the caregivers that took care of Mr. Richard! He was so much fun to be around and he had a way that could make you smile! He made my day many times and I will always remember this about him🙂 I always looked forward to the days I cared for him and I will keep those memories close to my heart! I will truly miss him!
Dear Steele Family, I was truly blessed to have met Mr. Steele!! Please know that I’m praying for each and everyone of you 😘
Rick, Kerin and Elaina, my thoughts are with you all and your wonderful Mother during this time. Some of my fondest childhood memories involve your family, with your Dad at the helm. Much love and light to you all.
Rich was a fine accordion player, perhaps the best I ever knew. Rick and John, and I performed for several years as Bob’s Trio, (dad’s nickname was Bob). We played a lot of performances for churches, and hospitals, particularly during the Christmas season.
Richard was one of the kindest and most gentle people I ever met.
He was an awesome student-athlete, playing football, and baseball. Rick loved the outdoors, and hunting and fishing were always important to him.
I was especially blessed to have had Rick involved in my life, and I will miss Rick. I wish only the best blessings from God, for Ricks’ family, now and forever.
Charlie
My heart is with you all. Rick was always my favorite brother. He will be missed by many but never ever forgotten.
Your have earned your wings of gold . Fly high sweet brother of mine.
This was my grandpa, I loved him dearly and will miss him so much! I remember being little and Grandpa was always, always picking on us kids. Tickling and teasing us, and always playing beautifully on his organ for us. Throughout my growing up years, my grandpa was always willing to help and support all of his kids and grandkids in everything and grandma was always right by his side. The both of them were and always will be a beloved touch to my heart! Thank you, grandpa, for being you, which was absolutely perfect in all our eyes. I love you!
Rest Richard, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation. U.S. Air Force.
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