Charles S. Steele

Charles "Charlie" S. Steele, 80, of Jefferson City, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Perryville, Charlie was the son of the late Charles and Lucy (Cain) Steele. He graduated in 1965 from Jefferson City High School and went on to attend Lincoln University.

On September 26, 1970, he married the love of his life, Jeanette Stegeman. For 55 years, she remained his devoted partner and his "bride," as he lovingly called her.

Charlie dedicated 38 years of service as Parts Manager for Riley Automotive, retiring in 2006. He was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and the many friendships he built throughout his career.

An avid outdoorsman, Charlie found great joy in hunting and fishing-especially duck hunting. He took pride in building duck blinds and cherished every opportunity to involve his grandchildren in the tradition. A passionate angler, he was a longtime member of Capital City Bass Masters and even built his first bass boat himself, a testament to his skill and determination.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanette Steele; daughter, Nicole Ward (Scott); son Jeffrey Steele (Gina); sister, Jeannie Hanquist; grandchildren, Mikaela Hill (Cody), Charles Wilbers (Gabriel), Cole Wilbers (Brittany), Blake Ward (Morgan), Danielle Ward, Remington Ward, Tyler Steele, Hunter Steele, Blaire Marquart (Eli), Ashley Wright, Brittney Ransom (Brandon), and Josh Wilbers; great-grandchildren, Elaina Carver, Kinsley Carver, Lucy Carver, Paisley Hill, Gabriella Hill, Layne Ward, and Lawson Ward; niece, Gayl Pina (Andy); nephew, Dean Hanquist (Vicky); as well as several other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Victor and Irene Stegeman; his brother-in-law, Gene Hanquist; and many other brothers- and sisters-in-law.

Charlie will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his steady presence, and the countless memories made outdoors with those he loved most. His legacy lives on in the traditions he passed down and the strong family bonds he helped build.

Friends and family will be received on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Houser-Millard Funeral Directors. A Liturgy outside of Mass will be held immediately following at 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy can be made to Golden Age Living Center (404 E 3rd St, Stover, MO 65078), Ducks Unlimited Memorial Contribution (One Waterfowl Way Memphis TN 38120), or Huntington's Disease Foundation (505 8th Avenue Suite 1402 New York NY 10018)

Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St.; Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com