STEELE, William Irving
Born June 05,1915, passed away very suddenly January 30, 2008 in Saanich Peninsula Hospital. Predeceased by his wife, Ella (Babe) in December, 2002. Bill leaves to mourn his sons, Ted, Gregg, Glenn (May), daughter, Carol(Lance); as well as 11 grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many friends. Bill worked at Harmac Pulp Mill in Nanaimo for thirty years, and played banjo with "The Snappy Six" during the 1930' and 40's, during which time he met and married Ella, his wife of 63 years. Bill spent most of his life in Nanaimo, where he and Ella raised their children in a home rich with memories. He was a loving and generous son, husband, father and friend. In 1992 Bill and Ella moved to Victoria and then on to Sidney in 2001, where they enjoyed their last years. Bill will be lovingly remembered for his great wit and sense of humour, and for his courage and strength to persevere and inspire others in his latter years despite his loss of eyesight and hearing. Those who survive Bill take peace in knowing that he has crossed over to Paradise to join Our Lord and Ella for all time, and he will be forever loved and missed by those he has left behind. Heartfelt gratitude goes out to the staff of Beacon Community Care, especially Donna, Brooke, Anabele, Nancy and Heather, who assisted Bill in his final years. Also thanks to Heather of Mt. Newton Centre, and Karen of the Sidney White Cane Club.
A private family graveside service will be held at Nanaimo City Cemetery on Wednesday, February 6, 2008 at 11:00am. Donations in Bill's memory can be made to the SPCA or the Sidney White Cane Club (through CNIB).