Wendell M Steele

He was the son of the late Clarence L. and Dorothy W. Steele and was born at Rockingham Memorial Hospital on November 5, 1940.

Mr. Steele attended Park View Elementary, graduated from Broadway High School and Madison College. He served in the US Army from 1963-1965.

On October 23, 1965 he was united in marriage to Anna Hayden, who survives.

He began his banking career at First National Bank, later graduating from the Virginia Bankers School. In 1985 he became self employed as an accountant. Throughout his life Wendell was active in many civic groups and community projects. He was a lifetime member of the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad, a member of Fire Company No. 1 and was a former member of the Harrisonburg Lions Club where he served as treasurer. He was also a member of Otterbein United Methodist Church where he served as financial secretary for a number of years.

Wendell loved his family, music, animals, and fed the birds daily. He was a gentle, kind, caring, non-judgmental person in whom people felt able to confide. Wendell was always generous with his time and skills, willing to help those in need.

He is survived by two daughters, Wendi J. Steele of Richmond, Traci H. Steele of Bisbee, AZ, his in-laws, Joe and Crystal Hayden of Harrisonburg, one sister, Linda Suter and husband, Lonnie of Purcellville, a number of nieces and nephews, and his beloved canine companion, Spike, as well as a host of friends, many of whom he considered as family.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Elaine S. Chittum and Janet K. Steele.

The family will receive friends 6-7:00 PM, Saturday, October 2, at The Club, 120 Waterman Drive, Harrisonburg, or anytime at his home 681 Alleghany Avenue, Harrisonburg.

A celebration of life service will be held 2:00 PM, Sunday, October 3, 2010, at Otterbein United Methodist Church with Rev. Glen Langston and Rev. Jim Grogan officiating.

The family will receive friends at the church following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Harrisonburg Rescue Squad, P. O. Box 1477 Harrisonburg, VA 22803 or Massanutten Regional Library, 174 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801.

Lindsey Funeral Homes and Crematory in Harrisonburg is handling arrangements and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.lindseyharrisonburg.com.