John Steele

John was born January 27, 1934, in Beardstown, the son of Norman and Maryland Wynn Steele. He married Dixie M. Holtman on April 24, 1954, in Beardstown; she preceded him in death on March 26, 2018.

John attended Culver Stockton College in Canton, MO and earned his associate degree from Lincoln Land Community College. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was employed with the State Journal-Register as a printer until his retirement in 1996 after 36 years of service, he later began working as a starter at Pasfield Golf Course. John was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus #364, VFW Post #755, and the American Legion #32. He was also the founder and organizer of the Mike Steele Annual Memorial Golf Tournament. John enjoyed playing golf, loved Notre Dame Football, and was a Chicago Cubs fan.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; son, John Michael Steele; sisters, Marianne Steele and Marsha Hendrix; and brothers, Marty and Norman Steele.

John is survived by his daughter, Kelly (Steve) Kates of Springfield; two grandchildren, Brandon (Shannon) Kates and Corey (Jamie) Kates, both of Springfield; three great-grandchildren, Aiden, Jaxson, and Riley Kates, all of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 12, 2021, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.

Funeral Ceremony: 10:30 a.m. on Monday, September 13, 2021, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield with Very Rev. Daniel J. Bergbower, V.F. officiating.

Illinois COVID-19 guidance will be followed, requiring face coverings.

Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery with military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Illinois Chapter, 954 W. Washington Blvd., Suite 305, Chicago, IL 60607; SHG Golf, 1200 W. Washington, Springfield, IL 62702; or the Mike Steele Memorial Fund, c/o Illinois National Bank, 322 E. Capitol Ave., Springfield, IL 62701, to be provided to a family in need in honor of John’s son.