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Jack Duane Steele, age 95, of Kline’s Resort, passed away on April 2, 2023 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He and his twin brother Jim were born on May 24, 1927 the sons of Clifford and Ethel (Baker) Steele. Jack and Jim enlisted together in the United States Navy in the spring of 1945. Fortunately, WWII ended before they were deployed for combat operations. Upon his return home, he would meet Marie Slover at Bethel Baptist Church. Jack and Marie were married on Thanksgiving Day 1949, but not before his future mother-in-law insisted, he complete his high school education first. He gladly complied for the prize of Marie and earned his diploma from Kalamazoo Central High School. Jack always loved to work with his hands, and began his work career by working for several years as a dental technician crafting partial plates at Fitch Dental Lab in Kalamazoo. After that, Jack worked at Upjohn (currently Pfizer) for over 30 years.
In July of 2014, Marie passed away after a lengthy struggle with Lewy Body Dementia. They were blessed with 65 years together and 2 sons, Kirk and Kim. Jack never wavered as a wonderfully devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a true family man who lived the example of his Christian faith. In 2016, Jack and Jan Fess were blessed to marry each other and continue to reside in his home at Kline’s Resort, where Jack had lived for over 30 years. Jack was an avid wood carver, handing out his masterpieces to everyone he knew and loved. He was very active his entire life, enjoying golfing, fishing, camping, biking, and cross-country skiing, and all things to do with the beauty of God’s wonderful creation. Jack was always rooting for the Detroit Lions and University of Michigan. The most important part of Jack’s life, was the love he had for his family and his trust and love of the Lord. He will always be remembered for his big heart and love for people whether serving through church or being a caring neighbor.
Jack is survived by his wife, Jan Steele. 2 children; Kirk (Elaine) Steele of Harriman, TN and Kim (Jorge) Steele of Guadalajara, Mexico. 3 step children; Bob (Robin) Fess of Mendon, Ted (Kim) Fess of Windsor, Canada, and Jeannine (Deon) Brown of Houston, TX. Grandchildren; Jennifer (Sam) Willoughby, Tyler (Kattie) Steele, Karlie (Garrett) Batten, Jessica (Glenn) Fess, Samantha (Kevin) McIntosh, Deon Jr. (Maria) Brown, Skylar (Maxine) Brown, Jazzlyne (Jordan) Ardoin, Lilliana Fess, and Penelope Fess. Great-grandchildren; Brayden, Emery, Brynn, Rylee, Mateo, Gabriella, Shia, and Jonah. A niece Connie (Herman) Devries, a nephew Gary (Maria) Steele. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Marie Steele in 2014, and twin brother Jim Steele in 2020.
In keeping with Jack’s wishes, cremation has been conducted. A celebration of Jack’s life will take place at Jack and Jan’s church, West Mendon Community Church on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 with visitation from 3pm until 4pm, with a memorial service starting at 4pm. A private burial with family will take place at a later date. It is suggested that memorials in Jack’s name be made out to West Mendon Community Church or the National Audubon Society. Condolences and memories may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
