Obituaries

Ted Steele died on March 23, 2024 at his home in University City, Missouri surrounded by loving family. He was 79 years old.

Ted was born on August 12, 1944, in Los Angeles, California.

After completing his studies in physics at Grinnell College and earning an MBA from Cornell University, he embarked on a fulfilling career in Information Technology Management.

But Ted's pursuits extended far beyond the confines of the office. He was a passionate genealogist, devoting countless hours to uncovering the stories and mysteries of his family's past. He was a frequent public speaker, wrote numerous genealogy articles, and published several books including the Steele Family History. His meticulous research and unwavering commitment earned him the respect of fellow genealogists and the gratitude of the families whose histories he helped preserve.

Ted found happiness and solace in the beauty of nature, through travel and particularly later in life at our cabin in Maine. At five o’clock you could count on him sitting in his Adirondak chair on the dock at Pitcher Pond, gin gimlet in hand, sometimes surrounded by ducks and ducklings.

Ted was an active member of the St Louis Childgrove contra dance community as both dancer and caller. He loved being on stage where he said he felt like a member of the band. His warm spirit, booming voice, snarky sense of humor, and clear teaching made him a favorite.

Ted is survived by his wife Judy, brother Curtis, children Richard and wife Donna, Matthew and wife Jamie, grandchildren Jacob, Nicholas, Mitchell, and Dylan, sister-in-law Amy, and nieces Elizabeth, Libby, and Maya.

The funeral will take place on Thursday, March 28 at 2:00pm at Bellefontaine Cemetery, 4947 West Florissant Avenue, St Louis, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St Louis Genealogical Society, Childgrove Country Dancers, or the charity of your choice in Ted's honor.