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Dave Steele, a Tampa native who gained national prominence as a championship race driver, died Saturday, March 25, of injuries sustained in a crash.
Born David MacFarland Steele on May 7, 1974, to Mac and Carol Steele of Tampa, Dave was a two-time national champion in the United States Auto Club (USAC) Silver Crown series, winning consecutive titles in 2004-05.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife Lynn Bunn Steele, and their three children, daughters Bailey and Claire and son Brody. He also leaves a sister, Shelly Lankford (Paul), a nephew, Chase Noriega, and constant companion, Murphy, his beloved dog.
Dave was a graduate of Hillsborough High School and Hillsborough Community College. Early employment with his dad’s business, Autocraft, as well as countless hours working with Mac preparing the family Sprint Car, proved an ideal apprenticeship for what became a spectacular career.
Steele’s 60 national USAC victories (26 in Sprint Cars, 18 in Midgets, and 16 in Silver Crown) place him 14th on the all-time win list in that organization’s 62-year history. Among his notable USAC accomplishments were eight victories in the “Copper World Classic” at Phoenix International Raceway, two scores in the “Turkey Night Grand Prix” at California’s Irwindale Speedway, and a “Night Before the 500” win at Indianapolis Raceway Park.
Closer to home, Dave was a three-time champion of the Tampa Bay Auto Racing Association and the 2016 Southern Sprintcar Shootout Series champion and had just achieved his 100th sprint car win in Florida. Intensely proud of his roots, he delighted in having continued Florida’s winning heritage in the renowned “Little 500” at Indiana’s Anderson Speedway, winning the event in 1996 and 2009. Steele also made a number of starts in NASCAR, IndyCar, and ARCA competition.
Visitation services will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 31, at Garden of Memories, 4207 E. Lake Ave., Tampa. Visitation service from 9 to 11 a.m. and memorial at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 1st at Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran, 304 Druid Hills Rd., Temple Terrace. Burial to follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the animal shelter of one’s choosing.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bobby Diehl
August 26, 2024
I had David as one of my Student Assistants at Hillsborough SHS for all four years of his Hill School Years. He would bring in his Trophy from his weekend racing (He always WON anything he raced in) to a one of the students on Monday. Great guy and will always be MISSED!
Karen and Roger Crouse
May 6, 2019
Happy Birthday David #superman
austin hall
December 17, 2018
he was a great man i went to all of his races and i was a big fan i always wanted to be like him
Anita
April 5, 2017
He's not gone. He's just a lap ahead.
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Nancy Knowles
April 1, 2017
Condolences and sympathy for the Steele
family Glad we had the pleasure knowing him
Nannette Zettler
April 1, 2017
Our condolences to all of you and to the NASCAR Family
Terry Glenn
April 1, 2017
Glad I got to know you. You will be missed! See you in the winners circle some day.
Kim Miller
April 1, 2017
Lynn, you all are in my thoughts and prayers! Rest In Peace David!
Buddy & Cindy Johnson
March 31, 2017
We were privileged to know Dave.Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Buddy & Cindy Johnson
March 31, 2017
We were privileged to know Dave.Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Bob, Krista, and Katie Singleton
March 31, 2017
Lynn and family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. ❤
nick nichols
March 31, 2017
the best ever on the pavement....there is a reason they call him superman...when the green flag flew,he was in a hurry and iam gonna miss you..r.i.p.
Gretta Bruce
March 31, 2017
Shelly,
My deepest sympathies on the tragic passing of your brother. I hope that the thoughts & prayers of the many people who he touched throughout his life will comfort you and your family as you cope with his loss.
Lori Schniers
March 31, 2017
My thoughts and prayers to the Steele and Bunn families. Love you lots Lynn.
Jerald Vann
March 31, 2017
RIP David Steele . Our Thoughts and Prayers for Carol and Mac and Family .
Lisa LaFollette
March 31, 2017
Words can't express the heartache that this brings. I will always cherish the laughter we've shared over the years. Love and Prayers to Mac, Carol, Shelly, Lynn and your children.
Lynn and Sharon Monahan
March 31, 2017
You was one of the best ! Unforgettable , Rest in peace
Steve Moore
March 31, 2017
So very sorry for David's passing. I still tell the story of David when Mac and I won our first Sprint Car win together. Thinking of you, C. MOORE
Karla Swan
March 31, 2017
RIP David Steele. We were at the races that night and left with very heavy hearts. Prayers to your beautiful family.
Chuck Wentworth
March 31, 2017
David Steele one of the great sprint car racers of all time superman will be sorley missed in the raceing community just was a good person and friend heart goes out to the family
Chuck Wentworth Tampa Fl.
March 31, 2017
"Thank you for being our freind.......K Brengle ".
March 31, 2017
"Thank you for being our freind.......K Brengle ".
DAVID OVITT
March 31, 2017
this is so sad ,I have followed him thru out the years .he is a true winner.always has been.he will be missed and loved by everyone he ever came into contact with .my entire family loved to be in his company at every race we could go to .......dave ovitt GM @ NORTHSIDEPROPANE INC.
jerry knoof
March 31, 2017
The man of steel race on.
Rayleen, Tanya & Zac Campilonga
March 30, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Dave. What an amazing guy and driver he was! It was an absolute pleasure watching him fly around the track to get the checkered flag RIP Superman Dave Steele May God please comfort his family at this time and help them understand Dave passed away doing what he loved Desoto was our home track when we lived in Florida for many years!
Rick Raducha
March 30, 2017
Racing has been my world since 1967, and I've been privileged to meet, watch many of the world's best racers. Which David was most certainly. I'm gutted and sad for your loss and the world's..I so much enjoyed watching Dave from Richmond to IRP and here in Florida too. There are so many greats now watching down on us all; they have a new Asphalt leader..I so much hope that Dave's family will have the very best from here on out and memories to keep content as possible.
Gerald Gradl
March 30, 2017
RIP Dave race fan Gradl family
Larry Shedd
March 30, 2017
Mac and Carol and family my heart goes out to you Only knew David as young man running around AutoCraft I folowed his career while in South Carolina told people i knew David and his parents but they didn.t believe me anything i can help with just let me know Larry Shedd
March 30, 2017
Glad I got to know you
Miss you
Dot Brady
Patrick and Joey Blanton
March 30, 2017
Words can not exspress the saddness your passing brings! Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Dennis Snow
March 30, 2017
My condolences to his family and friends Dave was one of the best race car driver I have had the privilege of knowing in my 40 years of being around the racing world.when Dave passed away they not only lost a champion and a hero and a great family Guy. Dave has conquered the racing world here on Earth and now that good Lord has called him home because he will be driving the car good built for him.our prayers go out to his family you will be missed the racing world will not be the same fly high Superman rip Superman
C Whitesell
March 30, 2017
Deepest condolences to your family! Sprint car racing will never be the same, from the first time I watched Dave race, I was hooked. I said to myself, this guy is amazing. It was always great watching him race! He will be forever missed by all! God Speed Superman! May you all find peace in the memories he left you.
Dennis Snow
March 30, 2017
Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family at this time of condolences we all lost a good man a good father and a great race car driver as a true race fan our hearts are broken but he is up in heaven racing with the best flagman himself the good Lord David we miss you we will see each other soon when it is our time
Joe Uccello
March 30, 2017
David was one of my best friends growing up. I think because of the person David was a lot of people can claim that distinction too. David always made everyone he knew feel like they were the only person around. David was one of the smartest, funniest, and most driven people I have ever known. I uploaded a blurry photo of David driving his '71 Camaro. This was the day his parents got it for him and it sticks out in my mind as one heck of a good day. My thoughts are with his wife and kids, Carroll, Mac, and Shelly. - Joe Uccello
Tim Mathews
March 30, 2017
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Steele family through this difficult time.
Dave was a natural born champion and great friend in the racing community.
Dave will be missed but never forgotten ledgends live forever God Bless
Greg Staton
March 30, 2017
RIP from a fan of Dave.I met him at a race in Lake City in the late 90's.Very impressive young gentleman.My prayers for the family
Tim & Robin George
March 30, 2017
Thoughts and prayers for Dave's family. My you continue you racing journey in heaven. Fly high Super hero
Sammy Swindell
March 30, 2017
Our deepest condolences to the family. So very sorry for your loss. Dave raced with our son Kevin when he was just getting started at 15 years old. He was always so generous with his time and help to him. He was the standard for which Kevin based his pavement racing on. Prayers are up for his wife and children. Sammy, Amy, Kevin & Jordan Swindell
Joseph Bartow
March 30, 2017
Dave was an incredibly nice and funny person. He gave freely of his time and knowledge. In some of the things he said about being prepared to go to the track, I learned lessons about how to fix things in my life. The world is a little less brighter without him in it.
Darnell Todd Manley
March 30, 2017
Thoughts and prayers go out to your family my friend! You will always hold a place in my heart and will always be my #ManOfSteele RIP Dave
Rick Bristol
March 30, 2017
My prayers go to the family at this very tough time. I pray God gives you comfort and peace. I had the honor of interviewing Dave multiple times at Orlando and then Sunshine during my years there 1993-1999. He was always a great interview and put on a show. He will be missed in the racing circles, but I know more by his family and loved ones. God Bless !
Rob Schwartzberg
March 30, 2017
I am blessed to have known Dave and his family and honored to consider them all friends. I'll be honest- I vaguely knew he raced cars, but that was only because of the photos on the wall of the house and a few casual conversations about work. I was lucky enough to have known him as Bailey's Dad first, as our daughters are close friends. While his accomplishments on the track were admirable and interesting, his greatest accomplishments were those achieved in his role as Lynn's husband, and Bailey, Claire, and Brody's dad. May his memory be a blessing, and may his determination, spirit, and joy of life be carried on by his children, as this will be his true legacy.
Dorothy Nowling
March 30, 2017
You have been a huge part of our family for a very long time. My dad always said you were the best and that you always will be. My deepest condolences to your family. Your racing family is going to take good care of Lynn and the kids David.You are greatly missed by so many. Now go win all the Little 500 buddy. Love your friend, "Donkey"
Sher Gillespie
March 30, 2017
Rest In Peace Dave! I enjoyed our time together... you were a great friend! I'll never the fun times like when you bought furniture but didn't strap it down good enough and it scattered all over I 77. You will be missed!
Richard & Jane Dormany
March 30, 2017
Rest in Peace "Superman". You will be missed.
Larry Tyler
March 30, 2017
David and I were serious competitors back in my days and were still friends after my accident and I saw him often!The world lost a great guy and a bunch of us are going to lost without his being around anymore! Rest In Peace My Friend!
Dave Peto
March 30, 2017
I'm just one of the many fans that followed your career. Thanks for the many memories over the years. We'll miss you, sir.
Gary Rinehart
March 29, 2017
I was one of the last to talk to David at Desoto on the track. He was one of the top sprint car drivers that I have seen in my 60 years attending races. He will be missed by thousands of us including me. May he rest in peace!
Rick Crist
March 29, 2017
I was blessed to work with Dave on a special project related to his USAC midget racing. Those times were very unforgettable and will be cherished even more now. Your Son, your husband, and your father will never be forgotten.
Carla Rae Roynon
March 29, 2017
David not only possessed a tremendous gift he was a tremendous gift to all who knew and loved him.
My deepest sympathies to Lynn and children, Murphy, Mac and Carol, and Shelly and her family.
Jimmy E Hickman and Family
March 29, 2017
I have been watching Dave run Sprints here in FL since the 90's. There is no doubt that he was the greatest asphalt sprint car driver in my book and you only see a talent like that once in a life time. I would drive any where in the state to see Dave drive. I even would call up Steele Performance to check and see if he was going to be running a particular race before I would commit to going. Dave would answer the phone and was humble and nice in speaking with you. Just last Oct I wanted a Steele Performance T shirt so I emailed the shop and Dave answered. He just ask me for my size and mailed it to me . I told him please let me know what I owe you and he never responded to that part. Talked to him a number of times over the years at the track before a race. He was always so humble and would take the time to talk with you. Me and my wife went to the races at Desoto this past weekend. I was just going to watch Dave put on another one of his driving clinics. Went down before the race during the autograph session and spoke to him as well as having a picture taken with him. I told him good luck tonite and with that smile he said thank you. I never thought I would be leaving that track shortly thereafter learning of his passing. Still can't believe it and still shedding some tears. My heart goes to Lynn,the children as well as Dave's parents and sister. I pray for God's comforting spirit on each of you. Godspeed Superman #33
Roy and LaVerne McKenney
March 29, 2017
We didn't know David but we certainly knew of him. WHAT A DRIVER!!!! We too lost a son at the age of 42. He was in a crash and in a coma for 11 days. Got better then we lost him to luekemia one year later. We feel your pain and our hearts ache for you. The family of Dallen McKenney USAC midget driver #88.
Dave Slawiak, Family
March 29, 2017
We were very privileged to know Dave for many years. Although he was a competitor of ours he unselfishly always would take time out in the shop or at the track to discuss or explain things that would help us. That's just the way he was. We will forever remember how dedicated he was to this sport but more importantly how loving and caring he was to his family and friends. Our most heartfelt condolences to Lynn, the children, Carol, Mac and Shelly.
March 29, 2017
My deepest condolences to Dave's family, wife and children.
He was a special character with a dynamic, witty personality.
If you were blessed enough to have been given a nick name by Dave,
Cherish it, hold it close to your heart and I promise that it will bring a smile to your face every time. Lorraine (Tampa)
March 29, 2017
OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES FROM THE GALLOPS FAMILY TO CAROL,MAC,LYNN AND CHILDREN ----NELSON GALLOPS
Fred Gould
March 29, 2017
So sorry for your loss, Dave became a good friend . We will miss his personality ,and his genuine love of his family and sport , You will never be forgotten ,RIP Dave.
RC Roper
March 28, 2017
First time I saw Dave race was when he was like 13 or 14 running a 3/4 quarter midget and even then it was evident he would be an incredibly awesome driver one day! That didn't take long! Dave and Mac were always willing to help when I called and asked many technical questions. I always appreciated that too! In my opinion Dave was one of the best Open Wheel Drivers ever! And a great guy too! God Bless
Robert Cole
March 28, 2017
Went to Indy to watch F1 several times, but the best driving I ever saw was Dave winning the twin 25s. Very glad I had the chance to meet him many years later and let him know how much fun he was to watch, a true talent. My sincere condolences
Ed Delporte
March 28, 2017
Rhonda Quintero
March 28, 2017
Rest in peace, Dave. You'll never be forgotten.
Rhonda Q.
Scott O'Neal
March 28, 2017
So sorry for your loss ,Dave will be sadly missed but never forgotten
John Treadaway
March 28, 2017
I did not know David personally, but anyone as loved as he was must have been a truly remarkable person. A man's life is measured by his devotion to life, family, children, and sports fans who cheered for him. There are no words that can describe the loss to his family and the racing world. My sympathy goes to his wife and children and other family members who were there during his years of success.
Pete Fox
March 28, 2017
Never saw you race, but read many stories on how great you were...both as a race driver but also as a human being. GOD speed Dave. RIP
James Watkins
March 28, 2017
David always took time to visit. A friend and a great racer.
Doing what we enjoyed with a passion. God's speed. Watkins family, Tampa, FL
Randy Steenbergen
March 28, 2017
Dave's ability to drive a race car is second to none, but that certainly isn't the only thing that speaks of him. Great father, husband and friend. David will be missed by so many. Prayers to the family.
Randy Steenbergen,
Print Express / Team 6R
Angela Friend
March 28, 2017
David was a wonderful friend to my grandfather and grandpa loved being apart of David's racing career! My heart goes out to your family at this time of loss.
Angela granddaughter of Harold Wirtjes #14
Lee Anne Guiducci
March 28, 2017
I have so many great memories about Dave when he drove for Team 6R. He always had a way of making people laugh from something funny he said. My deepest condolences to Lynn, his kids, parents and his sister and all that loved him. May he RIP.
Styner Motorsports
March 28, 2017
I could never find the words to express my sympathy for Lynn, the kids, Mac and all of his family. You were a great racer and a better person. Until I see you again. God Speed Superman! We really wanted to attend, but sorry we can not.
Tyler Godwin
March 28, 2017
I'm still in shock that a great racer, friend, and family man has passed so early in life. Dave was one of a kind and has always been great to my family and and I over the years, I remember when we went up to Alabama to get Murphy and Maggie for Dave and Lynn along for Mr. and Mrs. Steele. My granddaddy "Jay Bird" became real close the past couple of years buying a lot of parts from Steele performance . Now you can smoke a couple stoagies and drink a couple cold ones with him my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with your wife and kids along with Mr. and Mrs. Steele. Until we meet again ole buddy.
Your Friends,
Collins family and Godwin family
Rodger Strunk
March 28, 2017
Mac,
We are praying for your family. I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
God bless you. Rodger and Joe Strunk
(Former GTE co-worker-RFC Comet)
Mike Huling
March 28, 2017
Without a doubt, the best pavement shoe I've ever been around. I had the pleasure of working with David in getting him an IRL ride with Helmut Marko Racing back in the day. I had watched David's career blossom and recommended him to Mr. Marko. During practice, the German Crew Chief loosened the car up to the point that David spun into the Turn 1 wall. Somehow, the crew got the car back together with less than 3 minutes left to qualify. A mad and determined David somehow qualified a semi-wrecked car. The following is my greatest memory of David. As David got out of the car... 4-time Indy 500 winner... Johnny Rutherford told David..."what you just did in qualifying that car in the shape it's in shows me what I always thought about your talent... you are not a driver... YOU ARE A TRUE RACER!" David was a very quiet person back then, but super intelligent and very focused. To his wife, children, Mac and Carol, I'm sincerely sorry for your loss. RIP David.
Doug Boles
March 28, 2017
When I met Dave nearly 20 years ago, I was impressed with his humility outside of the car combined with his amazing talent in it. We were fortunate to run Dave in 1998 and 1999 in Indycar at Panther Racing and continue to stay in touch over the years as he raised a family, built a successful business and still dominated as a driver when behind the wheel. God gave him a talent that few have received. We were all blessed to know him. Saddened by the loss, but thankful for the memories. His family will continue to stay in our prayers.
Lee Anne Guiducci
March 28, 2017
I have a lot of great memories watching Dave race when he drove for Team 6R. He always had something funny to say and a great way of making people laugh. His talent was incredible. My deepest sympathies to Lynn and his kids, parents and sister and all that loved him. May he RIP.
Judy & Bill Kurrasch
March 28, 2017
Been remembering a lot of stories about you and Will. Brothers, not by blood, but by heart. You will be missed. Race with the greatest who have gone before. Love you. May God bless your family and give them comfort in the difficult time .
Darryl Guiducci
March 28, 2017
You were a great friend, you where the best when you bucked up in a race car, you had the best smile. You will always be remembered by your friends
at Jet Star and 6R.......Big D or as you would say Dirty D
Brian Guiducci
March 28, 2017
Deepest sympathy and condolences to Lynn, their children and the entire Steele family. Always a smile on my face when Dave was around.
Andrea Rankin-Magee
March 28, 2017
Dave was one of the most kind people I got to work with. Whenever he would call to place an order, we would chit chat about how lucky we were to live in Florida when the rest of the industry was snowed-in during build season and then we would fuss about the heat in August. He was always kind and a good voice to hear on the phone. I'm so sorry Lynn and the kids won't get to hear that voice daily anymore. You are in my thoughts.
Frank Hobel
March 28, 2017
Speechless, R.I.P. David
Tra and Carla Pissott
March 28, 2017
Our prayers to Lynn, the babies, and all of your family. He will be greatly missed but a legend that will be talked about forever.
Chris Randolph
March 28, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with the Lynn, the kids, and the rest of Dave's friends and family. Especially his dad, Mac.
Dave was a great race car driver, and a great guy. I will miss seeing him from time to time at the races.
Judy (Mogle) Gibbs
March 28, 2017
My deepest sympathy to all the Steele family. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
John & Linda Grimm
March 28, 2017
Our Prayers and Thoughts are with Lynn, The Children, Carol, Mac, and Dave's Sister. Please Lord help this Family to get through this most difficult time. Dave what a wheel man you were the Best of the Best. R. I. P. Dave Steele
Art and Debbie Dahlberg
March 28, 2017
We watched you race many times over the years, you were the best. Whenever and wherever those fire breathing cars line up from now on it will never be the same. Our hearts goes out to your family. Godspeed Dave
Curtis Patterson
March 28, 2017
R.I.P David steele
Robert Richards
March 28, 2017
I only had the honour to meet Dave once in person but watched his racing and shared his journey and achievements from afar in Australia. Dave was always a favourite for me and a person I respected not only on the track, but especially for the person he was off the track.
The news of his passing was difficult and heartbreaking to accept, as it was for all I am sure, but my heart and thoughts extend to Dave's family, wife and children at this time. I lost my father this past year, so I can only begin to relate to your grief. I have learnt through my experience, that the best way we can all honour a lost loved one, is to take the qualities that we loved them for and include them in our own character and lives, this way they live on forever through us all and even in the smallest way, the world will be a better place through us, because of them.
My family has yours in our prayers.
Karen and Roger Crouse
March 28, 2017
Our hearts and thoughts are with Lynn, the children, Mac and Carol. David was one of a kind and will truly be missed by everyone. RIP Superman ❤
March 28, 2017
KTBmotorsports
"Trooper" Dan Peterson
March 28, 2017
Dave, you will be greatly missed! Hanging at the store with you and Mac, with your mom Carol sneaking in to check on y'all, when I needed a place to hide from the madness, or needed a part, leaves some great memories! Didn't even mind carrying an engine to the car for y'all, always good time! Whether in Florida or Indiana at the Little 500, you always had a hello and a handshake for me, or some setup advice!
GOD BLESS You, LYNN and your beautiful children, as well as MAC and CAROL, y'all are in my prayers!
You have won your biggest race with the best purse possible....you're resting in the arms of THE LORD JESUS CHRIST!!
Candy Arnold
March 28, 2017
Since our younger years... Dave, fly high! You will forever be missed. My condolences to his wife and children, and his family.
James Bond
March 28, 2017
KTBmotorsports was started with the loyalty and kindness and experiance of Dave Stelle and Johnny Gilbertson! He will never be forgotten or replaced, I'm honored to of been associated and his friend who he called ole JB! The sport will not be the same! With all our love,James and Taylor Bond (KTBmotorsports)
James Bond
March 27, 2017
James Bond
March 27, 2017
James Bond
March 27, 2017
James Bond
March 27, 2017
James Bond
March 27, 2017
We KTBmotorsports as car owners and sponsors of the flowing(4m Michael Miller, 10 Terry Gray, 10m Morgan Turpin, 7 (Ole F&F) and (ole JB) which Dave has called me for years would like to say that we have won many races and championships thanks to Dave! He believed in me(James Bond) and trusted me and helped me with my race teams dirt and asphalt when no-one else wouldn't give me the time of day! I love you my brother and I will never fill the void in my heart and you beat me to heaven!!!!! God Speed
Jodi Brown
March 27, 2017
I am so sorry to hear this you are in our thoughts and prayers from Olney.
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4207 E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610
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