John "Jack" Borden Steele

John (Jack) Borden Steele age 95 passed away August 14, 2023 at the Parkstone Enhanced Care Facility. Born in South Brookfield, NS he was the son of John and Charlotte Steele (nee Crooker). He left South Brookfield after high school to attend Dalhousie University where he earned his medical degree. Jack had a family practice in Mahone Bay, NS before moving with his family to Halifax where he returned to Dalhousie to specialize in psychiatric medicine. Jack was head psychiatrist at the children’s unit, the MacKay House, at the NS Hospital for many years. He moved back to the South Shore, living in Martin’s River and working at the South Shore Regional Hospital where he practiced until retirement. As a teenager, John’s primary ambition in life was to help as many people as he could. In looking back on his life, he certainly achieved this goal not only through his profession but in his personal life as well.

John was an avid nature lover and had the greatest respect for the environment which he passed along to his children and grandchildren. He was happiest out on his boat in and around the islands of Chester and Mahone Bay or in his garden tending to his vegetables. He loved family time and we have fond memories of picnics, camping, and playing board games together. He always had a love of woodworking and after retirement pursued this interest building furniture for his own home or family members. He also took up rug hooking and produced a number of beautiful pieces.

Jack is survived by his wife, Joy Bell, and his daughters, Annette Wiseman, Corinne Steele, Rebecca Steele, Wendy Hill and son, Eric Steele. Grandchildren are: Kristen Leclerc (nee Hill) Lauren Hill, Mackenzie Steele and Liam Steele. Great granddaughter Lily Leclerc.

Thank you to the staff at Parkstone Enhanced Care and, in particular, the amazing staff of Seton Way. We will always remember the compassionate care you gave our father, especially in the last days of his life. We are forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope for Wildlife. As per Jack’s request, final committal will be at sea and at his birthplace of South Brookfield.