Mr. Ron Steele, age 81, was called to his eternal home on January 16, 2026, with his family by his side.
Ron was born and raised in Gilbert Plains, Manitoba where he met Helen Lukey, whom he later married. They moved to Winnipeg and then to Kenora, where Ron worked for Boise Cascade. He eventually attended Confederation College and earned his welding certificate before starting a job with Great Lakes Woodlands as a welder. He relocated his family from Kenora to Thunder Bay and spent the last 35 years living in Neebing Township. Ron also became an Iron Worker and was a proud lifelong member of local #759.
Throughout the years, Ron applied his skills to many significant projects in Thunder Bay’s region including the Thunder Bay Generating Station, Thunder Bay Water Treatment Plant, Atikokan Hydro Plant, the Thunder Bay Pulp and Paper PM5 expansion, and the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre among others.
Dad was our mentor and guiding light; he provided immense strength for us all. He was the foundation of our family which always came first. As a role model, he showed true integrity, respect, and kindness.
Ron loved spending time in his garage and workshops. As a skilled welder who paid great attention to detail, this showed through in all of his various projects. It wasn’t unusual for him to be busy fabricating or repairing something for someone else. His lifelong passion for restoring vehicles started when he was a teenager and continued until he fell ill in 2026. His sons Terry and Duane spent countless hours by his side over the years learning from him; he’d often remind them “take the time to do it right the first time or don’t do it at all.”
In earlier days, Ron enjoyed ice racing while living in Kenora. He also loved going to car shows and making many family trips back home to Manitoba to catch up with friends and relatives.
Ron is survived by his children Wanda Zachary (Roy), Terry (Mary), Duane (Katherine). Grandchildren include Christopher Zachary (Amanda), Jessica, Ryan, Matthew (Jecynda), Brooklyn, Cherika and Raegan. Great-grandchildren are Paul Zachary and Novah. Ron is preceded in death by Helen-his beloved wife-son Norman during infancy as well as his parents Marjorie and Norman.
A heartfelt thanks goes out to Dr. Ibriham, Dr. Kisselgoff, Dr. Chan, Dr. Sellick along with the nursing staff of 2C for their care and compassion during this time.
Cremation has taken place; there will be a memorial reception for family members and friends on Wednesday January 28th at Everest Westfort Chapel from 6-8pm (420 Gore St. W.)
“He asked for so little but gave so much”
Condolences may be made through www. nwfainc. com
