James Jacob Steele

James Jacob Steele, age 76, passed away Sunday, Oct. 25, 2015, at Mount Carmel East Hospital surrounded by his family. Jim was born March 22, 1939, in Madison, WI, to Clarence and Elizabeth Steele. He graduated from Washington & Lee High School in Arlington, VA, where he lettered in football, basketball and track. He attended Purdue University and later transferred to Indiana Tech where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. He then earned a graduate degree in Highway Design from Clemson University. Jim spent 48 years with the Federal Highway Administration and retired in 2010 as Division Administrator for the state of Michigan. He was well respected and recognized by his peers for his many achievements. During his tenure Jim lived or worked in 46 of the 50 states. Jim was a strong and loving father who cherished time with his family. He met his wife, Deborah Luce Steele, while attending Indiana Tech. They were married on June 6, 1964, and recently celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary. Jims’ philanthropic and spiritual natures were evident from the many charities he supported and his active involvement in Linworth United Methodist Church in Columbus, OH and University United Methodist Church in East Lansing, MI. Jim was a natural musician. In elementary school he started playing the tuba and continued playing throughout his life. He was a member of many bands including the Capital Area Brass, Clemson University Marching Band, Meridian Community Band, Ohio Department of Transportation Band, Purdue University Marching Band, Westerville Community Band, and the Worthington Civic Band. He was also a member of the Bell Choir and Chancel Choir at Linworth United Methodist Church as well as the Choirs at University United Methodist Church. Jim is survived by wife, Deborah Luce Steele; three children, Sandra (John) McKinley, James (Amy) Steele, and Phillip (Cherilyn) Steele; four grandchildren, Victoria and Nicholas McKinley, and Ashley and Andrew Steele; three brothers, Richard (Sharon), Thomas (Diane), and WilliA celebration service will be held Saturday, Nov. 7 at 4 p.m. at Linworth United Methodist Church (7070 Bent Tree Boulevard Columbus, Ohio 43235), followed by calling hours. In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to Linworth United Methodist Church in Columbus, OH, University United Methodist Church in East Lansing, MI, or a charity or local band of your choice.

James Jacob Steele

March 22, 1939 - October 25, 2015