Willard B Steele

Will enjoyed bowling with his family and friends, and enjoyed playing golf ANY chance he had (and apparently had been ran over by a golf-cart, thanks to his life-long friend, Toby Meier.) He enjoyed playing pool, and socializing with friends (especially with his favorite drink, a double shot of Crown Royal; neat.) There was NEVER a dull moment when you were graced with Will’s presence. He enjoyed FFA in his high school years, and enjoyed spending time with his mom at her Bakery. Will liked to bake and cook, as it reminded him of time spent with people he loved and cherished. Will loved to write and listen to music (which ranged from classical to metal).

He proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1997, where he honorably served his country. He was POL supervisor for 16 years, and was a Military Training Leader for three years. He boldly and fiercely influenced the lives of thousands of Airmen, and would ALWAYS share his opinion, even if they didn’t want to hear it. While deployed overseas in South Korea, he met and married Yong Ae Steele, and together they had “his boys” Willard Brent Jr., and Ty Jong-nam Steele. He was beyond proud of “his boys” and their amazing accomplishments with Taekwondo, and their intelligence and quick wit. He would brag about them to anyone who would listen.

He received an abundance of awards, medals, and decorations while in the service, many of which included; The Air Force Commendation Medal with 1 Oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Unit Award, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, (and so many more it would take up half of this page). He received multiple awards for his Military Training Leadership- which showcased his dedication and mentorship to the airmen he influenced. He was deployed to many countries, made many friends, and was a “battle buddy” to those whom he had served proudly alongside of.

After serving his country for 20 years, Will’s proudest accomplishment was when he retired from the United States Air Force in April of 2017. He retired as a Technical Seargant, and was honorably discharged. He dedicated his life to our Country and was proud to do so, even when it came at a cost.

After retirement, Will met his wife Katelyn, and they married. Will raised and loved her son, Grayson, as if he were his own flesh and blood. Life was a huge adjustment, but they shared many moments of laughter and love. In 2019, at the age of 42, Will “started over again” and together they had their Daughter, Weslynn.

Will is survived by his Grandparents, Willard and Mildred Gandy, his Wife Katelyn, and Brothers; Bobby (and wife Tracey) Steele, and Steven (and wife Miranda) Steele, and Terry Steele. His sister, Lacy (and husband Chuck) Borgeson. Will is survived by many loving nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and cousins. Will and his mother Janet were the best of friends. We can all find peace knowing he is preceded by his Mother, Janet and Father, Steve whom he greatly loved and dearly missed, and is now reunited with. We can only imagine the absolute joy from the rejoicing of their reunion and being able to hug each other once more.