James M. Steele
James M. Steele, 41, of St. Paul, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at his home on the river.
A celebration of James’s life was held on Sunday, September 8th at Jacobsen- Greenway-Dietz Funeral Home in St. Paul.
Musical selections included “Give Heaven Some Hell,” “I Am Not Okay,” and “Brother.”
Honorary pallbearers included Brian Sack, Corey Lewis, Josh Dennardt, Justin Wysocki, Ben Friedrichsen, and Justin Wissing.
In lieu of flowers, the family would encourage donations to the animal advocacy group of your choice.
James was born on August 2, 1983, to Tonia (McCord) and Doug Friedrichsen, in St. Paul. Tonia later met Stanley Steele, who soon after adopted James as his own and has been “Dad” ever since. James had the pleasure of being surrounded by many friends and family members, both immediate and extended.
James grew up in Palmer, Grand Island, and, lastly, St. Paul where he went to school and which he called home.
He was affectionately known by his nieces as “Uncle Snacks,” who was always present for any special occasions with smiles and gifts. James had a big heart and was always concerned for others, especially his furry companions. James always had dogs and loved them as his children. He absolutely loved the outdoors, whether it was hunting, watching, or interacting with wildlife. Other hobbies included golfing, where he continued to strive to play the game better as he drove his wreck of a golf cart. Most of all, James loved his home on the Loup River, north of St. Paul, a home he almost lost in the Spencer Dam flood. He sent numerous photos of sunrises and sunsets from his windows.
James had many jobs, but in recent years he drove truck (delivering distilled grains), which he loved and enjoyed the solitude of.
Those left to cherish his memory include his dad, Stanley (Janet Knisley) of Grand Island; brother and sister-inlaw, Eric and Hannah Steele of Grand Island; sisters, Andrea Steele of Grand Island and Dakota DesLaurier of Grand Island; nieces, Elli Kollins Steele, Tayva Steele, Harper DesLaurier, and Harlow Proctor; grandmothers, Karen McCord of St. Paul and Anna-Belle Steele of Fullerton; grandfather, Francis “Red” Steele of Fullerton; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He will be missed by all who knew him!
James was preceded in death by his mother, Tonia Marie Steele; grandmother, Bonnie Friedrichsen; grandfather, Fritz McCord; great-grandparents, Ellis and Florence Nelson; and uncle, Troy McCord.
Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.jacobsengreenway. com
The Phonograph-Herald | September 11, 2024