Obituary of Bob Steele, Jr.

We are heartbroken to share that Robert (Bob) Steele, Jr., 88, of Greeley, entered his heavenly home Tuesday, July 4, 2023 at North Colorado Medical Center. The youngest of five children, Bob was born December 7, 1934 in Greeley to parents Robert Steele, Sr. and Dorothy (Karich) Steele.  He graduated from Greeley High School in 1952 and attended Colorado State College of Education (UNC) prior to being drafted into the United States Army where he served during the Korean War and was a Specialist 4^th Class. Bob married Lorene Prothe on June 29, 1958 in Greeley, celebrating their 65^th Anniversary just prior to his death. Always a hard worker, Bob worked at Bartlett’s Service Station as a mechanic to put himself through college. During his time in the Army, he was awarded an Army Commendation Medal and a medal for Marksmanship. He was proud to use his math skills to run the computer system, helping to develop a formula that was faster than the computer system at that time. In the early years of their marriage, he and Lorene owned a mail route delivering packages to many rural post offices in Northern Colorado. He then worked as the Store Manager of Big R of Greeley for 37 years, retiring in 1999. After retirement, he enjoyed spending time watching his grandchildren play sports, golfing, fishing and gardening. He also had a love for geography and enjoyed traveling with family. During his lifetime, Bob had a passion for cars, owning more than 50 vehicles and five motorcycles. His pride and joy was the Lexus he bought just four years ago. More importantly, Bob was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and was devoted to his faith and his church.

Bob is survived by his wife, Lorene Steele of Greeley; his children, Connie Mapes (Rick) of Greeley and Brian Steele (Kara) of Centennial; his grandchildren, Matthew Mapes (Nicole) and great-granddaughter, Romi of Arvada, Nicole Mapes of Arvada, Katie Steele of Centennial and Benjamin Steele of Centennial. He is also survived by numerous other family members and friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his three sisters and his infant brother.

A Life Celebration is planned for 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3000 35^th Avenue, Greeley, CO.  A luncheon for family and friends will follow the service. Inurnment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, or a charity of your choice, in care of Adamson Life Celebration Home, 2000 W. 47^th Ave., Greeley, CO  80634.

Friends may send condolences to the family at adamsoncares.com.