PATRICK MATTHEW STEELE

Patrick Matthew Steele passed away suddenly on Wednesday, November 20, 2013. He was born on February 23, 1981, in Selma, Ca. to his proud parents, Matthew Steele and Joanne Velasquez- Steele. He lived his life in Fresno, until recently when he moved to Bakersfield, Ca. where he was employed as a claims adjuster for State Farm Insurance. His elementary school years were spent mostly at Dailey Elementary School and Wawona Middle School, where he loved to play soccer, basketball and baseball. Patrick graduated from Clovis West High School in 1999, where he was a gifted basketball player throughout his high school years. Most recently he graduated from Fresno Pacific University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, a crowning moment of accomplishment for him. While attending classes, he also received dialysis treatments for his ongoing battle with kidney failure. Patrick found the strength to attend the classes that led to his graduation. He found great joy during this time of learning as he was surrounded by a following of friends who fell in love with his charming wit and personality. There he also met Katie, the love of his life to whom we will be forever grateful for her devotion to Patrick. In his young life, Patrick accomplished more than many who live well beyond his years. His free spirit and giving personality along with his supreme good humor served him well and brought so much happiness to his family and friends and all who had the privilege to know him. He will be so greatly missed and our hearts are broken. We will cherish his bright smile and compassionate warmth for others forever in our hearts. We take strength in the bible verse that Patrick loved: Psalm 46: 1-2 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; God bless you Patrick, our beautiful son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and friend. We love you beyond what words could ever say. Rest in peace and "save a place for me." Patrick is preceded in death by his grandparents, Richard G. Steele and Ruth Steele; great-grandparents, Richard B. and Laura Steele, and Albert and Bernice Anderson. Along with his parents, Patrick leaves behind his beloved daughter, Aubrey Joy Steele; his beloved grandparents, John Velasquez and Joyce Velasquez; beloved fiancée, Katie McCarthy; beloved sister, Erin C. Shannon and her husband Justin; beloved brothers, Jeremy M. Steele and Cameron J. Velasquez; and a adoring nephew, Ethan J. Shannon. Patrick also leaves behind a multitude of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and co-workers, all of whom he dearly loved. A Church Service will be held at Valley Christian Center, 4649 E. Shields, Fresno, Ca. 93726, on Wednesday, November 27, 2013, at 9:00 a.m.