Lee Patton Steele

1939 - 2019

Lee Patton Steele, 79, of Bristol, went home to be with God Wednesday evening (February 27, 2019) at home with his loving life partner at his side. He had bravely battled numerous serious health issues for three years. Lee was born in Providence, RI on August 16, 1939, a son of the late Carolyn (Patton) Steele and Thurston Steele. Lee was a retired radio engineer, having been chief engineer at WRCH, WDRC, and employed at various other stations as well. He was known for his excellence in engineering and in mentoring the younger associates. He was a loyal member of the First Litchfield Artillery for 55 years which was one of the greatest of his many interests, including being an avid reader and theater-goer, especially the Gilbert and Sullivan operettas. He loved music as well, especially classical and jazz. Lee also loved being on the water and learned to sail as a child. It was dear to his heart and he was good at it. Following retirement, he helped at Island Cove Marina in Saybrook which gave him happiness. He was expert at putting things together and taking them apart. Inventiveness was one of his gifts. Anyone who knew Lee well knew what a true friend he was. Helping, laughing, giving, and having the gift of forgiveness. Besides his life partner, Rosa DeMarco, he is survived by his son, Charles Steele and wife Kim, his daughter Carrie Patrell and husband Brian, and granddaughter Nicole Dube, of Bristol. Also, a special sister-in-law, Margaret Poland-Steele, of Harwich, MA. He was predeceased by his brother Lyndsay, husband of Margaret. The family wishes to thank three special caregivers; Lisa Reynolds, Lynn Clark, and Priscilla Oslander for their compassion and outstanding ability. Gratitude also to hospice nurse Sarah Fogg, pastor Ken Smith, and Betty Burgess, bereavement and volunteer coordinator, all part of Bristol Hospital Hospice and Home Care, and all of whom brought comfort with each visit. Not least of all, the warm friends who provided comfort to us through it all. Calling hours will be on Tuesday (March 5, 2019) from 5pm to 7pm, with a spoken memorial to Lee by Pastor Ken Smith at 6:30pm at Funk Funeral Home, 35 Bellevue Ave., Bristol, CT. Per Lee's wishes, interment will take place on Wednesday (March 6) at the family plot in Glenwood Cemetery, 316 Cedar Ave., East Greenwich, RI, at approximately 11am for anyone able or wishing to make the trip. It is understandable if not possible to do so. Family will be there. Memorial donations may be made to charities of the donor's choice. Please visit Lee's memorial web-site at www.FunkFuneralHome.com.